Damaged structures and debris are seen in Bangued, Abra on July 28, 2022, a day after an earthquake hit various parts of Luzon. Jonathan Cellona, ABS-CBN News/File

MANILA — Through vivid recollection and a retelling of lived experiences, state seismologists aim to make communities more knowledgeable and better aware of the various risks posed by volcanic eruptions and ground movement. 

On Monday, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-Phivolcs) launched the products of the DANAS Project: sourcebooks rich in experiential knowledge written in local languages. 

These books aim to bridge the gap between science communication and preparedness, making vital scientific information accessible and relatable.

Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol said that the sourcebooks, which provide essential data on volcanic eruptions and earthquakes, were "designed to ensure that communities are not only informed by scientific data but are also able to relate to the information by integrating local stories."

Initiated in 2023, the project involved a team of researchers who traveled across the country to collect information from various regions. 

By interviewing eyewitnesses of natural hazards in their native languages, the team developed culturally sensitive, context-driven materials to enhance science communication and disaster preparedness. 

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The initiative underscores the importance of combining scientific knowledge with community narratives to build a more resilient and informed society.

"Language functions para sa impormasyon, magbigay ng direksyon. Mahalaga ang science, ito ang nagbibigay ng mga konsepto ng panganib at paghahanda. Pero mahalaga ang language para sa epektibong pagtuturo," said Ma. Mylene Martinez-Villega, leader of the DANAS Project.

(Language functions to help in information dissemination and give direction. Science is important. It tells of different concepts of risk and preparedness. But language is also important to effectively educate the public.)

By reading the lived experiences of survivors and witnesses of different hazards through familiar and meaningful language, Phivolcs said it hoped communities could better understand and prepare for potential disasters. 

Villegas said this approach would enable communities to connect with the material on a deeper level. 

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The sourcebooks are available in four languages, namelyTagalog, Kapampangan, Cebuano, and Hiligaynon. 

Phivolcs announced that Ilokano and Bicolano editions were set to be unveiled in the coming months.

Each sourcebook addresses specific types of hazards or events unique to the area it covers. 

For instance, the Tagalog version focuses on events in Southern Luzon, such as the Taal Volcano eruption and earthquakes in nearby regions. 

The Kapampangan version examines the impacts of the Mt. Pinatubo eruption and other ground movements in Central Luzon. 

Meanwhile, the Bicolano edition highlights the experiences of those affected by the earthquakes and the eruptions of Mayon and Bulusan volcanoes. 

Descriptions like "yumayagyag" (shaking), "nahihibas" (receding), and "parang tinatahip" (like you are being winnowed) are just a few examples of how locals describe their experiences during hazards. 

According to Phivolcs, these descriptions indicate a clear understanding of their situation.

However, the emphasis on scientific and technical terminologies often overshadows these local expressions, despite their equivalent meanings.

With volcanic eruptions and ground movement being just some of the many hazards that challenge the country, Phivolcs is optimistic that other agencies will also create sourcebooks in various local languages. 

This collaborative effort could reach more Filipinos and empower them to protect their communities and families from potential disasters.

Phivolcs said the sourcebooks will be distributed to various local governments as well as educational institutions.

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