The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), in partnership with the Provincial Government of Camiguin, will unveil the 1951 Hibok-Hibok Volcano Eruption Commemorative Marker at the Mambajao Municipal Hall in Poblacion, Mambajao, Camiguin, on July 22, 2026, during the 2026 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW) in Northern Mindanao. The activity also marks the start of the 75th anniversary commemoration of the 1951 Hibok-Hibok eruption.

The commemorative marker honors the memory of those who lost their lives during the December 4, 1951, eruption of Hibok-Hibok Volcano and serves as a reminder of the impacts of volcanic hazards on communities. The eruption claimed many lives, displaced thousands of residents, and significantly altered parts of the island’s landscape.

“The 1951 Hibok-Hibok eruption marked a turning point in the development of volcanology in the Philippines. The establishment of the Commission on Volcanology (COMVOL) in the aftermath of the eruption laid the foundation for the scientific monitoring and hazard assessment systems that DOST-PHIVOLCS continues to strengthen today. The commemorative marker also reminds us of the importance of understanding volcanic hazards and sustaining preparedness efforts to help reduce volcanic risk,” said PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol.

COMVOL was established through Republic Act No. 766 in 1952. It was mandated to conduct volcano monitoring, volcanic research, and related scientific investigations in support of public safety. COMVOL is now known as PHIVOLCS.

Seventy-five years after the 1951 eruption, the marker highlights the importance of learning from past volcanic events and advancing science-based volcano monitoring, hazard assessment, and public awareness. Through this initiative, DOST-PHIVOLCS and the DOST-Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Camiguin, the Municipal Government of Mambajao, and the Provincial Government of Camiguin reaffirm their commitment to promoting disaster preparedness and strengthening community resilience against volcanic hazards.

 

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol
Director, DOST-PHIVOLCS
phivolcs_mail@phivolcs.dost.gov.ph 
+632 8426-1468