Duenas, Iloilo — The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) inaugurated the first-ever seismic station in Iloilo province, April 28.

The seismic station was set up in Central Azucarera de San Antonio, Inc. Sugarcane Plantation, Brgy. Ponong Pequeño, Municipality of Dueñas and is the 115th seismic station in the whole country.

With this development, the DOST-PHIVOLCS has achieved its goal of establishing 115 seismic stations throughout the country before president Rodrigo Duterte’s term ends this year.

In addition, the establishment of the Dueñas Iloilo Seismic Station (DUIP) to the Philippine Seismic Network (PSN), DOST-PHIVOLCS can get enhanced monitoring capability along with faster and more accurate issuance of earthquake information to decision-makers, emergency responders, and the general public which will provide important input for earthquake disaster preparedness and risk reduction.

“We need to know that hazards and we have the capability to do it for you.  This Seismic Station will give us quick access to earthquake events in the whole island of Panay.  It will now make it easier for responders to concentrate and will give us the idea of where the highest intensity occurs after a major earthquake, said DOST Undersecretary and PHIVOLCS OIC Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. in his message.