Just as tectonic plates converge to shape the Earth’s landscapes, geologists from the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) come together to strengthen the systems governing Philippine geosciences through the annual Geoscience Workshop. This event serves as the primary platform for MGB geologists to standardize methodologies, discuss project deliverables, and chart future directions for various geoscience programs. It fosters consultation and knowledge-sharing to refine existing strategies and enhance nationwide geoscience initiatives.
The workshop also marks the culmination of the previous year’s geoscientific field activities, allowing participants to analyze and discuss critical geological data that will inform the current year’s projects. Key focus areas include geological mapping, mineral exploration, resource assessment, disaster preparedness, and risk reduction and mitigation. Additionally, this year’s discussions emphasized the integration of gender mainstreaming in geoscience projects, recognizing the need for inclusivity in fieldwork, policy-making, and capacity-building initiatives. Financial management and project planning were also central topics, ensuring that resources are efficiently allocated to maximize the impact of geoscience programs.
This year’s workshop took place on February 10 – 14, 2025, at the Lucky Chinatown Hotel in Manila City, Metro Manila. The five-day event featured lectures, presentations, workshops, and practical sessions, facilitating in-depth discussions on advancements in geoscience. A total of 170 participants attended, including geologists, chemists, GIS specialists, and other technical personnel from the Lands Geological Survey Division (LGSD), Marine Geological Survey Division (MGSD) of the MGB Central Office, and the Geosciences Division (GD) of MGB Regional Offices. Representatives from the Geosciences Division, Mines and Geosciences Services, Ministry of Environment, Natural Resources and Energy (MENRE-MGS) from the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM), as well as expert resource speakers from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources - Water Resources Management Office (DENR-WRMO) and the River Basin Control Office (RBCO), also participated in the discussions.
By incorporating gender-responsive approaches, strategic financial planning, and policy-driven project management, the workshop ensured a well-rounded framework for improving geoscience research and its applications in the Philippines. Through these annual gatherings, MGB geologists continue to refine methodologies, promote inclusivity, and reinforce their commitment to sustainable and impactful geoscience initiatives.
MGB technical personnel from all over the country come together for the annual Geoscience Workshop.
Geologists and technical personnel from various MGB Offices convene in Lucky China Town Hotel to standardize methodologies, discuss project deliverables, and chart future directions for various geoscience programs.
Geologists and technical personnel from various MGB Offices convene in Lucky China Town Hotel to standardize methodologies, discuss project deliverables, and chart future directions for various geoscience programs.
By: Lands Geological Survey Division