PHL is in dire need of volcanologists, geologists

 

It's ironic that, despite being one of the world's most volcanically active countries, the Philippines has so precious few volcanologists.

 

So, who wants to be a volcanologist?

 

Sadly, not many, judging from the small number of students taking up geology, a required course for the job.

 

A report by GMA News' Cedric Castillo on GMA News TV's "State of the Nation" Wednesday night cited data from the Commission on Higher Education indicating geology is among the most needed courses for the country to develop.

 

The other needed courses include earth science and geological engineering.

 

Yet, data from the Department of Labor and Employment showed that geologists are among the hardest positions to fill—with many job opportunities but few takers.

 

Geologists can earn a monthly salary in the P60,000 range, the SONA report said.

 

"Kaunti lang talaga ang pumapasok diyan, unang-una mahirap, kaunting schools ang nag-o-offer, at ang enrolment pakaunti-unti rin," said CHED executive director Julito Vitriolo.

 

In the meantime, there may not be many experts to keep an eye on volcano activity like that at Mayon in Albay, whose alert level the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised to level "2" last week.

 

"Nakita ko gaano kaimportante bigyan mo ng information ang mga tao," said resident volcanologist Ed Laguerta, when asked why he has stayed at his post for more than 30 years.

 

Laguerta also said he is ready to pass his knowledge to anyone who is willing.

 

"Bawa't batch na na-train namin during internship may isa nag-geology, ok na yan sa akin," he said. — Joel Locsin/TJD, GMA News