The Geological Society of the Philippines' (GSP) GeoCon 2024, held December 4-5, 2024, at the Novotel Araneta City in Quezon City, served as a dynamic and effective platform for Philippine and international geologists to share their research and advancement in the field. The conference, themed "Filipino Geologists: Bridging Geoscience, Technology, and Industry for a Better Philippines" highlighted the essential contributions of geologists to responsible resource management and effective disaster risk reduction. Presentations and discussions spanned a wide range of topics, encompassing both fundamental geological principles such as petrology, geochemistry, geophysics, tectonics, volcanism, climate change, and stratigraphy, and applied geoscience related to energy, water, and mineral resources.
The conference highlighted the important role of geoscience in building a sustainable and resilient Philippines.
Mr. Joey Nelson R. Ayson (GSP President), Usec. Carlos Primo C. David (DENR) [Photo by the author]
GSP President, Mr. Joey Nelson R. Ayson, explains the story behind the event’s theme. “The theme of this conference had its roots in Thailand when we attended GEOSEA 2024 and the Thai Geological Society recounted their difficulties in explaining natural phenomenon like landslides or severe flooding or other geohazards since the locals would rather believe on folklore or even supernatural causes…”
“We need to balance the conversation and wise use of our limited natural resources such as minerals, oil & gas, geothermal, water and even hydrogen. As such, we have to continue to explore and build a database of our natural resources including critical minerals and energy resources as we transition to a green economy.”
The conference aimed to facilitate solutions to critical challenges in areas such as energy development, economic geology, geohazard mitigation, geochemical and geophysical analyses, volcanism and tectonics, seismic and earthquake engineering. At the same time, the event encourages recognition, mitigation, and adaptation of emerging environmental trends, leveraging tools like artificial intelligence and machine learning applications in geology, engineering geology and geotechnics.
The two-day conference also featured an oral and poster scientific sessions where participants presented their innovative research, exchanged ideas, and built networks within the geoscience community.
GeoCon2024 is a milestone event for the Philippines’ geoscience community as it provided meaningful collaborations and enriching connections among our country’s brilliant minds. The conference had successfully reinforced the importance of bridging geoscience, technology, and industry to drive progress and innovation.
The active participation of the geologists of MGB RO No. VIII in the conference underscored the commitment of the Office in advancing the Bureau’s mission of promoting sustainable mineral resource development and ensuring geohazard preparedness and environmental protection.
Mr. Ayson also noted, “Geologists play a significant role in the creation of geo-hazard maps to identify areas prone to landslides, floodings, coastal, seismic, volcanic, and other geohazards as well as provide risk assessments to these natural hazards. This also includes providing geotechnical data and services for various infrastructure projects to support the Build Better More Program of the government.”
He also stressed that importance of communicating correct information to our leaders in a timely manner so that they are able to make informed decisions based on science. Mr. Ayson added, “Equally important is to provide and explain this information to the Filipino people so that they are not uninformed or misinformed. Only then can we truly bridge any gaps and significantly contribute to a better Philippines.”
A Brief History of GSP
On September 2, 1945, in Manila, Filipino and American geologists and mining engineers founded the Geological Society of the Philippines (GSP). The initial push for its creation is attributed to Major Robert N. Williams and Dr. Jose M. Feliciano. Dr. Feliciano became the first President. The Philippine government recognizes the GSP, requiring that one member of the Commission on Volcanology come from the Society. The GSP also spearheaded Republic Act 4203, passed in 1965, which regulates the geology profession in the Philippines and allows the GSP to appoint members of the Board of Examiners for Geology.
Currently, GSP has 1,200 members from about 700 in 2022 and a thousand in 2023. Mr. Ayson said, “This is why in 2023 and 2024, we have focused on giving back to the membership whose continue support has propelled the Society to new heights. From the free Life Membership of seniors and a modest accident insurance for current members, we now bring the PRC in this convention to assist in your licence renewal. Mabuhay ang GSP!”
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Photos by Marcelle P. Villegas
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