On 21 June 2021, the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) celebrated its 69th year anniversary through the launch of VolcanoPH Info mobile application.
VolcanoPH Info can help the public “have the right information to make the right decisions,” as remarked by DOST Undersecretary and PHIVOLCS Officer-in-Charge Renato Solidum Jr. The mobile app provides a summary of the 24-hour observation period containing the alert level, monitoring parameters, and recommendations that can help the local government units implement appropriate action plans for their constituents. The information is presented in a concise infographic format in Filipino language that is easy to read and understand. It also has a push notification feature that can alert its users when there is an update.
“This is the efficient way of providing volcano information straight to the user,” said Usec. Solidum. “It can also be used by the public as reference to fact check fake information especially those that mimic DOST-PHIVOLCS issuances,” he added. VolcanoPH Info was launched through an online press conference, InfoSentro sa PHIVOLCS, held via Zoom Meeting and Facebook Live.
Usec. Sollidum talks about the VolcanoPH Info
Usec. Solidum revealed that the app was already in the planning stage even before the 2020 Taal Eruption. He also presented how the data are processed from the Volcano Monitoring Database to the app platform. Ms. Maria Antonia V. Bornas, Chief Science Research Specialist, demonstrated how to use the VolcanoPH Info and explained the information included in the app. VolcanoPH Info will help the public, especially those living near the volcanoes to always be prepared.
VolcanoPH Info app is initially available for Android phones. It is downloadable via Google Play Store or through the link: cutt.ly/volcanoinfoph. Users are encouraged to post their review on Google Play store for further improvements of the app. Upcoming developments of the app include an English Language Setting and an iOs version to reach a larger audience.
