The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) will launch two innovative digital tools designed to strengthen volcano monitoring and promote volcanic eruption preparedness during the upcoming Handa Pilipinas Visayas Leg at the SMX Convention Center, Bacolod City, on October 27-29, 2025.
Firstly, the Volcano Observation Live Capture Net (VOLCAN), offers near real-time visuals, earthquake records, and other scientific data from monitored active volcanoes. Accessible to the general public, VOLCAN especially equips Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs) and local governments with vital early-warning information from Volcano Observatories to better protect their communities. Authorized users can view one-minute camera snapshots of volcanoes and volcanic earthquake records, which will enable them to remotely monitor volcanic activity and help implement timely safety precautions. VOLCAN is accessible through PHIVOLCS-LAVA (Local Active Volcanoes Archive), the standardized database of volcano monitoring data in the Philippines, which has been open to the public since 2015. DOST-PHIVOLCS is committed to providing more early-warning information through VOLCAN in the coming years.
Complementing this is the VolcanoPH Info App, initially launched in 2021 for Android devices, which will now be available for iOS users as well. The app delivers daily volcano observation bulletins in both English and Filipino straight to mobile devices. Users can automatically receive emergency information such as eruption bulletins and volcano advisories, as well as additional information such as weekly volcano status summaries, alert level schemes, bulletin archives, preparedness guides, and a glossary of related terms. The app brings volcano early-warning straight to the public’s fingertips, and was created as a vital resource for public awareness and preparedness.
“These innovations demonstrate PHIVOLCS’ dedication to harnessing science and technology for public safety and awareness,” said DOST-PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol. “By empowering both local authorities and the public with accurate, timely information, we aim to support informed decision-making in times of volcanic events.”
