The National Committee on Geological Sciences (NCGS) successfully held its “2024 Year-End Assessment and Strategic Planning Workshop” from October 29 to 30, 2024, at Park Inn by Radisson, North EDSA, Quezon City.

This breakthrough event brought together representatives from NCGS member agencies to evaluate the progress of the Committee’s projects and activities and outline strategic directions and action plans in the coming years.

Since its revitalization in 2022, the Committee has engaged in several activities funded by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). This year, considering the increasing interest in balancing the protection of National Geological Monuments (NGMs) and geosites with sustainable development, this workshop is crucial for advancing the NCGS's mandate.

The workshop aimed to refine a roadmap that aligns with national priorities and initiate the development of a comprehensive policy that clearly outlines the roles and responsibilities of the NCGS and its member agencies in safeguarding the NGMs, geosites, and UNESCO Global Geoparks (UGGps).

Spearheaded by the Mines and Geosciences Bureau as the Chair and Secretariat, attendees included representatives from several member agencies namely, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, the DENR – Climate Change Service, Biodiversity Management Bureau, the University of the Philippines – National Institute of Geological Sciences, Department of Energy, the Department of Tourism, National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic, and Natural Resources Research and Development, National Museum of the Philippines, Department of Public Works and Highways, and Metropolitan Waterworks and Sewerage System – Corporate Office.

Throughout the two-day workshop, a series of presentations and discussions took place, covering topics such as:

• The history and background of the NCGS and its strategic goals;
• FY2024 work and financial plans, including updates on fund utilization;
• Findings, challenges, and opportunities identified in the 2024 assessment of possible geosites in IlocosNorte;
• Updates and proposed plans for the Mount Apo Natural Park and Northern Samar as potential geoparks; and

• Enhancement of the Geosite Assessment Model (GAM) tool to ensure its alignment with Philippine-specific applications in geosite evaluations

Participants shared valuable insights on the existing and proposed policies for protecting significant geological sites while supporting the country’s development. Online participants from teams working on the potential geoparks in Mount Apo Natural Park and Northern Samar also joined the discussion via Microsoft Teams, providing updates on their proposed plans and milestones for UGGp applications. The key outcome of the workshop was the Committee’s review and recommendations for the proposed policies to be drafted, alongside a five-year strategic roadmap for the NCGS.

The workshop concluded with the presentation of the group's outputs and consolidated recommendations. The finalized roadmap and policy recommendations are expected to serve as guiding frameworks to foster sustainable development, support conservation, and elevate the global recognition of the Philippines' unique geological heritage.

As the NCGS looks ahead, the commitment to advancing geological sciences while harmonizing environmental stewardship and economic development remains a top priority.

by: General Geology Section / Lands Geological Survey Division