Senate approves PHIVOLCS Modernization Bill on Final Reading
The Senate showed its full support for the PHIVOLCS Modernization Act (Senate Bill No. 2825), sponsored by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano.
With 23 affirmative votes, the bill was approved on its Third and Final Reading on Tuesday, January 14, 2025.In his sponsorship speech in December 2024, Cayetano emphasized the urgent need to modernize the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to enhance the country’s disaster preparedness.
“Ang Pilipinas kasi isa sa pinaka-vulnerable [when it comes to disasters caused by natural hazards]. That’s what this modernization bill is about. How we can mitigate disasters, risks, how we can prepare, and how we can also take care of our nature better,” he said.
The bill aims to better equip PHIVOLCS to effectively perform its functions and contribute to closing the gaps in the country’s disaster response and preparedness.
It includes upgrading PHIVOLCS’ equipment, increasing the number of seismic stations, and ensuring better salaries and training for its personnel.
Following the passage of the bill on its final reading, senators expressed strong support for the measure, recognizing its critical role in strengthening the country’s disaster response and preparedness.
Senator Joel Villanueva took the Senate floor to thank Cayetano for his leadership in advancing the bill.
“We extend our thanks to Senator Alan Peter Cayetano for his leadership in pushing for this critical measure. We voted ‘Yes’ to this measure to make sure that PHIVOLCS is equipped with the equipment, technology, and personnel needed for timely and accurate disaster data collection,” Villanueva said.
Before the sine die adjournment last year, Cayetano repeatedly pointed out the broader implications of the modernization bill stating that it is just one part of a larger effort to keep the Philippines and its people safe.
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