Paladutaan 2017 Abstract Volume

Paladtaan 2017: New Perspectives
Program and Abstracts

14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium
27 November 2017
NIGS Audio-Visual Room
PALADTAAN 2017
ORGANIZING COMMITTEE
Dr. Noelynna T. Ramos

Chair
Creszyl Joy J. Arellano

Cleodette L. Lagata
Scientific Program
John Romel R. Flora

Clarence Y. Magtoto
Valerie Shayne V. Olfindo
Randell B. Pabroquez
Iuvenis Orbis Geological Fraternity
UP Cwm Zena'na
UP Geological Society
UP Geology Majors Society
UP Rockhounds
Secretariat
Ma. Criselda B. Baldago

Caezare Mae R. Cario
Omar S. Soberano
Kerve M. Supnet
Logistics
Kathrine V. Maxwell
Regina Martha G. Lumongsod
Raul Benjamin C. Mendoza
Student Awards
John Agustin P. Escudero

Website and Publicity
PALADTAAN 2017: NEW PERSPECTIVES
27 November 2017
NIGS Audio-Visual Room
PROGRAM
Registration and Opening Ceremonies

8:00 9:00 Registration
9:00 9:10 Welcome Address and Program Overview
Repurposing R&D for maximizing its societal impact
9:10 9:40 C.P. David
Keynote Presentation
Session 1: Surface Processes and Hazards
Moderators: Dr. Noelynna T. Ramos and Mr. Richard L. Ybaez
Natural hazard cascades in the Philippines from 2010 to 2017
9:40 10:00 L. Minimo, M.C. Baldago, M.Y. Flores, T. Davies, S. Beaven and K. Jago-
on
Morphometric analysis of debris-flow susceptible alluvial fans in the
10:00 10:20 Philippines after the Koppu and Melor typhoon events
F. Llanes, A.M.F. Lagmay and K. Rodolfo
10:20 10:35 Coffee Break
Controls of landslides in southern Benguet and eastern La Union,
Philippines using GIS-based analysis
10:35 10:55 J. Anao, D. Uy, J.J. Codia, J. Capino, X.N. Uboan, C.M. Tanpoco, L.A.
Panganiban, K.B. Cuyno, A.P. Norcio, G.A. Gelera, J.R. Flora, F. dela Pea
and S. Catane
Monitoring diffuse C02 degassing of Taal Volcano
10:55 11:15
M.C. Baldago, A.M.F. Lagmay, C. Arcilla, E. Padron and G. Padilla
Session 2: Mineral and Energy Resources
Moderators: Dr. Ma. Rosanna Ines Balangue-Tarriela and Ma. Isabella G. Hermo
Mineralization characteristics of Suyoc epithermal deposit, Mankayan,
Benguet, Philippines
O. Soberano, J.A. Gabo-Ratio, K. Queao, C. Dimalanta, N. Caagusan, B.
11:15 11:35
Payot,
J.M. Guotana, G.T. Valera, B.R. Villapaza, J.A. Amoroso, N. Kugizaki,
K. Terashima, K. Yonezu, E. Andal and G. Yumul, Jr.
Mineralization in the Sangilo epithermal deposit: Insights from field,
petrographic and geochemical studies
K. Jabagat, J.A. Gabo-Ratio, M.A. Pradenas, N. Kugizaki, N.A. Pacle,
11:35 11:55
J.B. Demegillo, O. Soberano, B.R. Villaplaza, V.S. Olfindo, B. Payot, K.
Yonezu,
K. Queao, E. Andal, C. Dimalanta and G. Yumul, Jr.
11:55 13:00 Lunch Break
State of global and national exploration initiatives: As a Filipino
geologist, where do I find a job?
13:00 13:40 G. Yumul, Jr.
Session 3: Petrology and Geochemistry
Moderators: Dr. Betchaida D. Payot and Ms. Cleodette L. Lagata
Fluid equilibria of hot spring waters in selected active Philippine volcanoes
13:40 14:00
M.I.R. Balangue-Tarriela, A.C. Muyco and C. Lagata
Olivine-hosted fluid inclusions in the dunite xenoliths from Mt. Pinatubo
14:00 14:20 Philippines: Clues to the nature of mantle wedge
E. Gadot, Jr., B. Payot, T. Morishita, S. Arai and T. Mizukami
Relationship of crustal thickness to the magma type of Philippine volcanoes:
14:20 14:40 Insight to silicic volcanism in island arcs
N. Parcutela, C. Cloma, Jr., E.M. Reyes, K.M. Sayen, J.M. Guotana and C. Villamil
Petrological characteristics of peridotite and gabbro clasts of Dos Hermanos
Mlange, Ilocos Norte
14:40 15:00
J. Pasco, J.M. Dycoco, J.D. Pillejera, F.A.A. Uy, B. Payot, G.T. Valera, C.
Dimalanta and L. Armada
15:00 15:45 Poster Session
Session 4: Interdisciplinary Geosciences
Moderators: Dr. Leopoldo P. de Silva, Jr. and Ms. Barbie Ross B. Villaplaza
Geology and engineering processes determine the quality of mining-
influenced water in the Philippine copper porphyry projects
15:45 16:05
G. Pamintuan, Jr.
Invited Talk
Occurrence of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) on a faulted reef
front in Santiago Island, Northwestern Philippines
16:05 16:25
D.L. Mancenido, F. Siringan
Invited Talk
Session 5: Tectonophysics and Stratigraphy
Moderators: Dr. Leo T. Armada and Ms. Yvonne Ivy L. Doyongan
Is Palawan stable?
16:25 16:45 F. Siringan
Invited Talk
Updated stratigraphy of Ilocos Norte
J.D. Pillejera, J. Pasco, J.M. Dycoco, X.N. Uboan, R.M. Allauigan, F.A.A. Uy,
16:45 17:05
L. Armada, B. Payot, A.G. Fernando, R. Ybaez and Geology 170 class of
AY 2016-17
Geology of Caramoan Peninsula revisited
J.C. Urquico-Zialcita, N. Apolinario, J.M. Austria, A.M. Binuya, R.E. Delina,
17:05 17:25
Y.I. Doyongan, J.J. Jimenez, R.T. Marquez, C.A. Muyco, M.A. Somosa, M.A. Uy,
L.P. de Silva. Jr., A.G. Fernando and A.M. Peleo-Alampay
Batangas April 2017 earthquakes: Swarm or foreshocks?
17:25 17:45
M. Aurelio
Awarding of Outstanding Student Poster Award (OSPA)
17:45 18:00 Closing Remarks
Cocktails
Oral Presentations
State of global and national exploration initiatives: As a Filipino geologist, where

do I find a job?
Graciano P. Yumul, Jr.*1 and Carla B. Dimalanta2

1Apex Mining Company Incorporated, Ortigas Cener, Pasig City, Philippines
*corresponding author; csrwg2@gmail.com
2Rushurgent Working Group Laboratory, National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the
Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City
Abstract
Having attended the recent GSP-initiated Continuing Program for Development

consultation meeting, I heard that there are more than 400 Geology graduates taking the
2017 Professional Regulation Commission Geology Licensure Examination. That is a lot!
But the more critical question is what jobs would be available to the board passers? And
for that matter, what awaits those in the undergraduate Geology programs of the
different Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) in the future? The talk is divided into five
parts:
Conventional
It is important that students learn the basics of Geology. Three important things have to
be remembered: a.) When doing or applying something, one must understand the
underlying principle/ theoreticals; b.) Boots on the ground as story telling a lie will not
hold water; and c.) A discovery will only mean something when put into production.
Climatics
Irrespective of whether people believe in a changing climate or not, evidence-based
arguments and experiences tell us what is happening. Reality check shows a.) Ocean
water is warming up; b.) CO2 budget in the atmosphere is increasing; c.) Land, instead of
absorbing CO2, is actually giving it off now; and d.) Extreme weather events hit countries
regardless of their economic status.
Conquest, Curse and Climax

Very confusing data and information are available now. Some say the downward trend of
the mining cycle will continue whereas others say a boom is starting now. What we know
are: a.) Exploration budget is perilously down. Less budget, less drill holes, less
discoveries!; b.) There has been no major discovery in the Philippines in the last ten years;
c.) Deeper deposits, with increased exploration budget per discovery, is more of the norm
now. Exploration is not creating that much wealth as expected; d.) Discovery to
Development is taking a long time against the backdrop of marginal projects being
considered for development; and e.) Higher risk areas do not necessarily translate to
higher return.
2 | Paladutaan 2017
Communities, Clarity and Consistency
Gone are the days when we boast that the Philippines is highly mineralized. In the world
that we live in right now, that is only a small fraction of the story. The 2017 World Risk
Report shows that the Philippines is way down in the a.) Hard Risk Ratings; b.) Perceived
Risk Ratings and c.) Investment Risk Index. With exploration budget down, with most of
the major and junior exploration companies skipping the country, and with a not-so-
competitive investment climate, one is left with the question how come the Mining
Industry in the Philippines is still getting hit. What can be done? Repealing E.O. 79 will be
a good start to address these issues.
Circumstance and Conclusion

When one starts to think that it is that bad in the Industry, then one just has to look at the
other side of the story. Competitive growth areas for the country are recognized. Future
geologists can actually situate themselves using these forecasts. Jobstreet, LinkedIn,
Classified Ads, Viventis and Headhunter, among others, may give future geologists a taste
of what is in store for them.
14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium | 3

Surface Processes and Hazards
Natural hazard cascades in the Philippines from 2010 to 2017
Likha Minimo1*, Ma. Criselda Baldago1, Mary Yshabelle Flores2, Tim Davies3, Sarah Beaven3, and
Karen Jago-on4
1 National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101,
Quezon City, Philippines
*corresponding author; lgminimo@nigs.upd.edu.ph
2 Philippine Science High School Western Visayas
3 Department of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of Canterbury, New Zealand
4 School of Urban and Regional Planning, University of the Philippines, Diliman
Abstract
The Philippine Government made has made a leap in disaster risk reduction and management
(DRRM) when it enacted the Republic Act 10121 (Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and
Management Act of 2010). However, a number of large-scale disasters have occurred in the
country since. The worst among them, Super Typhoons Haiyan and Bopha, had major casualties
in areas affected by hazard cascades.
As such events may actually occur frequently, but in smaller scale in many localities, this study
investigated the occurrence of natural hazard cascades in the whole country. Events and their
impacts were identified from advisories and situational reports of the National Disaster Risk
Reduction and Management Council from 2010-2017. The implementation of the DRRM Act has
led to more detailed reporting of incidents, allowing for their relocation down to city or
municipality level, and at times, even barangay level. Cascading events were then classified based
on their triggers and modes.
From 330+ reported events, 90+ were classified as natural hazard cascades. Around 90% were
meteorologically-triggered; the rest were secondary to earthquakes and volcanic eruption.
Cascades associated to tropical cyclones or local rain events, drought, and earthquakes have
occurred in all island groups, Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao. The most common incidents were
floods and mass wasting associated to tropical cyclones and local rain events; with some floods
causing landslides, and vice versa. Apart from these, casualties have also been linked to strong
waves, storm surges, tornadoes, and lightning strikes. Landslides, flood and sinkhole formation
due to earthquakes, rockfalls during volcanic activity, and forest fires during drought were also
recorded.
Keywords: hazards cascades, Philippines, DRRM Act
4 | Paladutaan 2017
Morphometric analysis of debris-flow susceptible alluvial fans in the Philippines

after the 2015 Koppu and Melor typhoon events
Francesca V. Llanes1, Alfredo Mahar Francisco A. Lagmay1, and Kelvin S. Rodolfo2

1 NationalInstitute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines Diliman
*corresponding author; cescallanes@gmail.com
2 Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois at Chicago
Abstract
On 17 October 2015, Typhoon Koppu brought heavy rains that generated debris flows in
the municipalities of Bongabon, Laur, and Gabaldon in Nueva Ecija province. Roughly two
months later on 15 December, Typhoon Melor made landfall in the province of Oriental
Mindoro, bringing heavy rains that also generated debris flows in multiple watersheds in
the municipality of Baco. Despite not being in the direct path of the typhoon, debris flows
were triggered in Bongabon, Gabaldon, and Laur, whereas old debris-flow deposits were
remobilized in Dingalan, a coastal town in Aurora province adjacent to Gabaldon. During
the onslaught of Typhoons Koppu and Melor, landslides of rock, soil, and debris
converged in the mountain stream networks where they were remobilized into debris
flows that destroyed numerous houses and structures situated on alluvial fans.
Satellite images before and after the two typhoons were compared to calculate the
deposit extents on the fans and to determine the number and extent of landslides on each
watershed. The affected alluvial fans were investigated in the field to determine whether
they are debris flow or flood-prone, using a set of geomorphic and sedimentary
characteristics that had been established to differentiate the two processes. Melton ratio,
watershed length, and other significant morphometric indices were calculated and
analyzed for the affected watersheds using geographic information system (GIS) and
high-resolution digital terrain models. Regression analysis was conducted to identify the
relationships between the indices and the respective debris-flow volumes of each
watershed. Relationships between the indices and alluvial fan characteristics are
established, as well as recommendations in using the analysis results in identifying
debris-flow susceptible fans around the Philippines.

Controls of landslides in Southern Benguet and Eastern La Union, Philippines

using GIS-based analysis
Jerome B. Aano*, Danice A. Uy, Jim Jopro A. Codia, Jethro B. Capino, Xandr Neal B. Uboan, Chelly
Mei N. Tanpoco, Alfred Louie L. Panganiban, Kate B. Cuyno, Arian Paul D. Norcio, Gayle
Adrienne L. Gelera, John Romel Flora, Federico de la Pena, and Sandra G. Catane
Engineering Geology Laboratory, National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines-
Diliman, Quezon City 1101, Philippines
*corresponding author; jerome.anano2014@gmail.com
Abstract
Landslide inventory mapping provides detailed information about the distribution of

landslide occurrence in space and time. Sixty-nine landslides have been identified within
the 434 km2 study area in Southern Benguet and Eastern La Union based on Google Earth
satellite imagery from years 2015 to 2017 as well as SRTM 1 Arc-Second Global USGS
digital elevation model from year 2000. The largest landslides have areas ranging from
51319 m2 to 63364 m2. The predominant landslide mechanism is debris slide followed
by debris flow and debris avalanche. Overlays of geologic map, landslide distribution,
and topographic maps indicate that most landslides occur in areas having moderate to
steep slopes, and near or along structures like faults, rivers, and roads. These suggest that
structure is the main control of landslides in the area. This provides initial information
on the susceptibility of landslides in the study area and serves as a take off point for
further investigations.
Keywords: Landslide, Southern Benguet, La Union, GIS
6 | Paladutaan 2017
Monitoring diffuse CO2 degassing of Taal Volcano
Ma. Criselda Baldago1*, Alfredo Mahar Francisco Lagmay1, Carlo Arcilla1, Eleazar Padron2, and
German Padilla2
1 National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101,
*corresponding author; mbbaldago@up.edu.ph
2 Instituto Tecnolgico y de Energas Renovables, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Spain
Abstract
Since 1572 there have been 33 eruptions of Taal, most of which are characterized as
phreatic or phreatomagmatic. In the past century alone, the explosive eruptions have
already caused a number of fatalities and considerable damage to properties. With Taals
proximity to highly populated areas, it is important to monitor its activity. Diffuse soil
CO2 efflux is continuously being monitored by an automatic geochemical station located
on the fumarolic field at the Daang Kastila Trail. The station is equipped with a non-
dispersive infrared (NDIR) spectrometer. External factors, such as endogenous CO2
emission, soil water content, temperature and atmospheric parameters are filtered out
as they were recorded simultaneously. In addition, discrete CO2 efflux surveys at the
Main Crater Lake (MCL) are conducted. The MCL CO2 data were correlated with the
analysis of the geochemical station data.
A peak in CO2 emission from both the MCL and in the soil at the geochemical station was
observed last March 2017. Based on the results of the Fourier transform and residual
analysis, the main CO2 efflux changes are not driven by fluctuations of meteorological
variables and seem to be associated with fluid pressure fluctuations in the volcanic
system. With a longer temporal evolution, the diffuse CO2 measurements show potential
as a geochemical tool to support the monitoring techniques in Taal.
Keywords: Taal Volcano, Volcano monitoring, Diffuse CO2, Time series analysis

Mineral and Energy Resources
Mineralization characteristics of the Suyoc epithermal deposit, Mankayan,

Benguet, Philippines
Omar B. Soberano1*, Jillian Aira S. Gabo-Ratio1, Karlo L. Queao2, Carla B. Dimalanta1, Noe L.
Caagusan2, Betchaida D. Payot1, Juan Miguel R. Guotana1, Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera1, Barbie
Ross B. Villaplaza1, Juan Alex V. Amoroso3, Naoto Kugizaki4, Katsuhito Terashima4, Kotaru
Yonezu4, Eric S. Andal2, and Graciano P. Yumul, Jr.3
1 Rushurgent Working Group, National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of
the Philippines, Diliman 1101, Quezon City, Philippines
*corresponding author; omar.soberano@upd.edu.ph
2 Itogon-Suyoc Resources Incorporated, Sangilo, Itogon, Benguet, Philippines
3 Apex Mining Company Incorporated, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines
4 Department of Earth Resources Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
Abstract
The Mankayan mineral district probably has the highest proven and potential economic
value compared to other mineralized areas in the Philippines. It is known for the world
class Lepanto high sulfidation epithermal Cu-Au, Victoria intermediate sulfidation
epithermal Au-Ag, and Far Southeast porphyry Cu-Au deposits. Just ~4 kilometers south
of these well-known deposits is the Suyoc epithermal prospect, which is hosted by the
andesitic volcaniclastics of the Balili Formation and the polymictic Suyoc Conglomerate
of the Klondyke Formation. The prospect has three vein-types based on mineralogy:
quartz, quartz-sulfide and quartz-carbonate veins generally trending northeast and due
north. The quartz and the quartz-sulfide veins have a massive texture. The quartz vein
contains very few amounts of pyrite crystals, whereas massive to disseminated
pyrite+chalcopyritesphaleritegalena occurs in the quartz-sulfide vein. On the other
hand, the quartz-carbonate vein is composed of interlayered rhodochrosite/calcite and
colloform microcrystalline quartz. It contains a sulfide assemblage of
sphalerite+galena+chalcopyrite+pyrite with minute sizes of native gold, electrum and
hessite occurring within the sulfide crystals. Fluid inclusion studies of the three vein-
types reveal two-phased liquid-rich inclusions in quartz. The results are:
Vein type Homogenization temperature Salinity
Quartz carbonate vein 240-250C 0.72-2.75 wt.% NaCl
Quartz vein 250-260C 1.41-3.71 wt.% NaCl
Quartz-sulfide vein 230-250C 0.37-2.09 wt.% NaCl

Results from XRD analysis show an illite-chlorite alteration assemblage of the wallrocks
immediately adjacent to the three vein-types. This assemblage indicates a temperature
of formation of ~200 to 300C, which is quite consistent with the fluid inclusion results.
The vein characteristics and analytical results point to an intermediate sulfidation
epithermal mineralization for the Suyoc prospect.
Keywords: Suyoc, epithermal, vein, sulfide, alteration
8 | Paladutaan 2017
Mineral and Energy Resources
Mineralization in the Sangilo epithermal deposit: Insights from field,

petrographic and geochemical studies
Karl D. Jabagat1*, Jillian Aira S. Gabo-Ratio1, Marlene Ariam Aguilera Pradenas 2, Naoto Kugizaki2,
Nikko D. Pacle2, Jessamin B. Demegillo1, Omar B. Soberano1, Barbie Ross B. Villaplaza1, Valerie
Shayne V. Olfindo1, Betchaida D. Payot1, Kotaru Yonezu2, Karlo L. Queao3,4, Eric .S. Andal3,4, Carla
B. Dimalanta1, and Graciano P. Yumul, Jr.3,4
1Rushurgent Working Group, National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the
Philippines, DIliman Quezon City, Philippines
*corresponding author; jabagatkarl@yahoo.com
2Department of Earth Resources Engineering, Faculty of Engineering, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
3Itogon-Suyoc Resources Incorporated, Sangilo, Itogon, Benguet, Philippines
4Apex Mining Company Incorporated, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines
Abstract
The complex tectonic history of the Philippines resulted in the formation of various
mineral districts throughout the archipelago, foremost of which is the Baguio Mineral
District (BMD) in northern Luzon. It is host to world-class Cu-Au hydrothermal deposits
such as the Sto. Thomas II porphyry copper deposit and the Acupan and Antamok
epithermal gold deposits. It also hosts the poorly studied Sangilo epithermal deposit in
Itogon, Benguet, which is adjacent to Acupan. Field, petrographic and geochemical data
of the Sangilo area revealed an intermediate sulfidation epithermal gold mineralization
overprinting on a remnant porphyry copper system. Both of these mineralization styles
are hosted by calc-alkaline facies of the Central Cordillera Diorite Complex. Occurrence
of an older porphyry copper system is supported by the presence of an outcropping
potassic alteration zone (secondary biotite + magnetite) with EB and A-type veinlets. The
presence of copper sulfide assemblages and malachite imprints in the underground
exposures also attest to this. Propylitic alteration related to this system is characterized
by chlorite, epidote and calcite alteration assemblage. The overprinting intermediate
sulfidation epithermal gold mineralization is composed of quartz-carbonate veins +
adularia with high manganese content. Phyllic alteration (quartz-sericite-pyrite)
associated with the quartz-carbonate veins was also observed. Presence of adularia,
bladed calcite and hydrothermal breccias indicate boiling, which is the main mechanism
in gold precipitation. The evolution of the mineralized area is attributed to the subduction
along the Manila trench. Early pulses of calc-alkaline arc magmatism represented by the
Central Cordillera Diorite Complex are responsible for the formation of the old porphyry
copper system. This is succeeded by uplift due to the subduction of the Scarborough
Seamounts causing intense erosion. This event exposed the old system into a shallower
environment making it susceptible to overprinting by a younger epithermal deposit.
Keywords: Baguio Mineral District, epithermal deposit, porphyry copper system

Petrology and Geochemistry
Fluid mineral equilibria of hot spring waters in selected active Philippine

volcanoes
Rosana Balangue-Tarriela*, Austin Camille Muyco, and Cleodette Lagata

National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101,
*corresponding author; mdbalanguetarriela@up.edu.ph
Abstract
Hot springs are common features in the vicinity of active and potential active volcanoes
in the Philippines. These vary in characteristics in terms of discharge types, temperature
and water/fluid chemistry (Cotton, 2016; Delmelle et al., 1998; Stimac et al., 2004;
Taguchi et al., 2014; ). Results of these studies showed differences in terms of the
chemistry of the hot spring waters temperature, pH and concentrations of major ions.
Springs samples in Mt. Pinatubo after the 1991 eruption can be classified into two
compositions. Springs outside the crater exhibit dilute sulfate-bicarbonate waters, while
those located near the crater show dilute chloride-sulfate waters. Springs and craterlake
chemistry in Mt. Taal show evidence for seawater mixing, and thermal waters have been
classified into chloride-sodium-sulfate type, sulfate-chloride type, and combinations of
the groups. Mt. Bulusan springs are typically classified as bicarbonate-sulfate or
bicarbonate types. One of the key features of these springs is the absence of boiling water
with neutral pH and steam-heated acid sulfate water. The magmatic-hydrothermal
system in Mt. Biliran is characterized by three categories of fluids: acid-sulfate-chloride,
steam-heated fluids, and mixed fluids.
To understand better the underlying geothermal systems, SOLVEQ, a Fortran-based

program was used to simulate the fluid-mineral equilibria of these systems. Results show
the different mineral suites saturated in the hot spring waters reflect the differences in
the characteristics of the waters. Equilibrium temperatures also vary from one
hydrothermal system to another.
Keywords: hotsprings, SOLVEQ, fluid-mineral equilibria
10 | Paladutaan 2017
Olivine-hosted fluid inclusions in the dunite xenoliths from Mt. Pinatubo,

Philippines: clues to the nature of the mantle wedge
Efren G. Gadot Jr.1*, Betchaida D. Payot1, Tomoaki Morishita2, Shoji Arai2, and Tomoyuki
Mizukami2
1 Rushurgent Working Group, National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines,
Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines 1101
*corresponding author; eggadot@gmail.com
2 Department of Earth Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kakuma, Kanazawa, Japan 120-1192
Abstract
The 1991 Plinian eruption of Mt. Pinatubo exhumed numerous fragments of the mantle
wedge, in the form of mantle xenoliths. The suite of mantle xenoliths collected from Mt.
Pinatubo comprise mostly of harzburgites, with subordinate dunites and a lherzolite In
this study, we present novel data on the dunite xenoliths to append the existing data in
the literature about the nature of the mantle wedge beneath Mt. Pinatubo which were
mainly focused on the harzburgite xenoliths. The dunites are composed mainly of olivine
and chromian spinel, with secondary orthopyroxene veinlets and amphibole reaction
rim.
The mineral chemistry of the dunites suggests mantle conditions for its origin. The
samples follow the mantle residual trends of in the mantle olivine array (MOA) and
olivine-spinel mantle array (OSMA). The olivines are characterized by low CaO (<0.02
wt%) and NiO (0.29-0.42 wt%) contents. The spinels show strong variations in TiO 2
contents at relatively constant Cr2O3 (or Cr#), which is interpreted as a result of
interaction between percolating melt with mantle peridotite. Based on the
aforementioned geochemical characteristics, the dunites are interpreted as products of
melt-harzburgite reaction along melt pathways in the mantle wedge.
Olivine, which is an anhydrous mineral, is found here to host numerous fluid inclusions.
Raman spectroscopy of the fluid inclusions in olivines revealed the presence of liquid H 2O
and gaseous CO2 as the major phases, with subordinate magnesite, chrysotile/talc, and
magnetite. Mass balance equation of the phases in the fluid inclusions suggest that these
phases can be formed with only the olivine as the silica source. This suggests that the
fluids percolating in the mantle beneath Mt. Pinatubo is a CO 2-rich hydrous fluid. The
magmatic and metasomatic history of the dunite xenoliths provides first-hand
information about the nature of the mantle wedge beneath Mt. Pinatubo. The current
study suggests the presence of porous dunite melt pathways in the mantle wedge beneath
Mt. Pinatubo.
Keywords: Pinatubo, dunites, mantle wedge, fluid inclusions

Relationship of crustal thickness to the magma type of Philippine volcanoes:

Insights to silicic volcanism in island arcs
Nathaniel E. Parcutela1*, Concordio L. Cloma, Jr.1, Edd Marc L. Reyes1, Karla May F. Sayen1, Juan
Miguel R. Guotana1, and Charmaine V. Villamil2
1Mining, Geology, and Ceramics Engineering Department, College of Engineering, Adamson University,
Ermita, Manila City
*corresponding author; nathaniel.parcutela@adamson.edu.ph
2Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology Department of Science and Technology,
Diliman, Quezon City
Abstract
The research aims to establish the relationship of crustal thickness to the type of magma
by characterizing the geochemical signature of the lava erupted by selected Philippine
volcanoes. Eighteen (18) active and potentially active volcanoes with available data on
major elements and crustal thickness were considered. Computed mean values of major
oxides were plotted as a function of crustal thickness, and linear regression analysis was
used to validate the relationship. Results show that the silica content of lava increases
with crustal thickness, thus, a positive correlation. This confirms the conclusion of Farner
and Lee (2017) who posited that thicker crust produces more differentiated magma,
which is relatively depleted with MgO and Fe2O3. Statistical results also indicate that
crustal thickness of >39.9 kilometers is associated with lava containing >62% SiO 2, which
is almost analogous to juvenile continental materials. Using ArcMap 10.4, a crustal
thickness map for the Philippines was generated with SiO 2 as geochemical proxy.
Findings in this study, which somehow resemble Manalo et al.s (2015), can provide
additional insights on magma composition and volcanism in island arcs like the
Philippines. Subsequent research may opt to investigate effects of other factors like
presence of sediments in accretionary wedge along subduction zones.
Keywords: Crustal thickness, silicic volcanism, island arcs, Philippine volcanoes
Petrological characteristics of peridotite and gabbro clasts of the Dos Hermanos

Mlange, Ilocos Norte
Julius A. Pasco*, Jesley Mei A. Dycoco, Jon Dave B. Pillejera, Frances Aleksis Anika E. Uy,
Betchaida D. Payot, Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera, Carla B. Dimalanta, and Leo T. Armada
Rushurgent Working Group, National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the
Philippines, Diliman 1101, Quezon City, Philippines
*corresponding author; japasco@up.edu.ph
Abstract
The Dos Hermanos Mlange (DHM) is the basement rock unit of Ilocos Norte. This is best exposed in
the municipalities of Bangui, Burgos, Pagudpud, and Pasuquin. The Dos Hermanos Mlange provides
evidence for convergent plate interaction in the northern Luzon area which eventually led to the
formation of an accretionary complex. However, the origin of the ophiolitic clasts that comprise the
mlange and its possible genetic relationship to other proximal ancient oceanic lithosphere such as
the Zambales Ophiolite Complex remains to be studied. In this work, we present initial petrographic
and geochemical data on the peridotite and gabbro clasts of the Dos Hermanos Mlange which may
help elucidate the origin of these ophiolitic blocks.
The exposures of the Dos Hermanos Mlange are comprised of sheared ophiolitic blocks such as
serpentinized peridotites, gabbros, amphibolites, and cherts chaotically embedded in a scaly and
highly sheared serpentinite matrix. The clasts range from cobble to boulder and are extensively
exposed in Tulnagan River, Pasuquin. Peridotites are the most dominant clasts in the mlange, with
some megaclasts reaching up to around 200 meters in diameter. The same lithologies are also found
as floats in the area.
Petrographic analyses show that the peridotites from the DHM are mostly harzburgites, with few
dunites, and are composed of olivine, orthopyroxene, clinopyroxene, serpentine, and minor spinel.
Kink banding was observed in the olivine grains. Orthopyroxenes show straining, with clinopyroxene
as exsolution lamellae. Most spinels are brown and euhedral or holly leaf-shaped. The peridotite clasts
follow typical partial melting curves with the residual harzburgites (sp Cr# = 0.48-0.55; ol Fo = 0.87-
0.95) exhibiting the least refractory signatures compared to chromitites (spinel Cr# = 0.70-0.71) and
dunite (sp Cr# = 0.57-0.62; ol Fo = 0.86-0.87). Most of the harzburgites plot within the olivine spinel
mantle array (OSMA) in the olivine forsterite content vs spinel Cr#. The spinel grains in all of the
samples also plot within the forearc peridotite field (sp Cr# vs Mg#).
The gabbro clasts of the DHM are coarse-grained and exhibit cumulate texture. Contrasting
petrographic characteristics are observed in the two samples analyzed. Sample L-J02 is identified as
a troctolite. It is composed of well-formed olivine, plagioclase laths and interstitial clinopyroxenes.
Sample B-G03 is a gabbronorite composed of plagioclase, clinopyroxene that are partially replaced by
amphibole, orthopyroxene, and occasional olivine. Initial mineral chemistry data also show that
sample B-G03 is comprised of highly calcic (An90-97) plagioclases, Mg-rich clinopyroxenes (Mg# = 0.82
0.89) comparable to typical of arc rocks. In contrast, sample L-J02 is composed of plagioclases that
are less calcic (An74-80) albeit having Mg-rich clinopyroxenes which are distinctive of gabbros of MOR
affinity. The petrographic and geochemical signatures of the ophiolitic clasts possibly imply the
chaotic mixing of the different clasts of the DHM during its formation within the accretionary prism.
Furthermore, these ophiolitic fragments provide insight on the petrological characteristics of an
ancient oceanic lithosphere that was once present in this region.
Keywords: Ilocos Norte, mlange, peridotite, gabbro, petrography, geochemistry

Interdisciplinary Geosciences
Geology and engineering processes determine the quality of mining-influenced

waters in Philippine copper porphyry projects
Gabriel P. Pamintuan, Jr.

Department of Mining, Metallurgical and Materials Engineering, University of the Philippines, Diliman,
Quezon City
Abstract
The contribution of geology and engineering processes to acid mine drainage-metal

leaching was studied in nine copper porphyry mining projects, 3 producing and 6 defunct.
The mines showed varying mine water pH levels; acidic waters predominate in mines
that still contain a lot of pyrites in the surrounding pit and remaining resources/reserves,
and are usually far from alkaline country rocks. For copper orebodies that have
associated calcite and other alkaline minerals, and those that are surrounded by
limestone and other alkaline rocks, water pH levels are circumneutral, usually on the
alkaline side. The recovery of copper is done in alkaline mill waters (pH 9-11), mainly to
suppress pyrite, especially when present in high percentages (3 - 5%) in the ore; lime is
added to effect this high pH and suppress the flotation of pyrite; in one mine where pyrite
is one order of magnitude lower (0.3 0.5%), it is simply allowed to float and reports
with the copper minerals in the concentrate. Tailings stored in ponds and behind dams
contain a lot of lime, much more than enough to neutralize pyrite even if it was around
40% of the tails; this enables the companies to manage acid mine drainage in the long
term.
Interdisciplinary Geosciences
Occurrence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on a faulted reef front in

Santiago Island, northwestern Philippines
Danica Linda Mancenido* and Fernando Siringan

Marine Science Institute, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101, Quezon City,
Philippines
*corresponding author; dmancenido@msi.upd.edu.ph
Abstract
This paper presents an investigation of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) in

faulted areas along the reef front of an extensive reef flat complex fringing Santiago Island
- a small, limestone island located in Bolinao, Pangasinan, northwestern Philippines. The
occurrence of SGD on the western reef front is highlighted due to its linear morphology,
hypothesized to be a surface manifestation of a fault. This was suggested by a previous
work, which delineated lineaments outlining the western reef edge together with other
traces cutting across the island. We demonstrate that the occurrence of SGD in this
offshore marine environment is due to faults serving as structural agents of groundwater
transport. Moreover, our findings provide evidence that the structural connections of the
faults lengthened the groundwater transport route to extend as far as several kilometers
away from the reef front. We believe that one of the sources of groundwater discharge in
the reef front includes the confined hydrological system of the Bolinao mainland. Such
geologic control on SGD was investigated by integrating several methods such as
lineament analysis, 222Rn activity and salinity measurements and electrical resistivity
profiling. Results show 222Rn activities at the reef front to as much as two orders of
magnitude higher than previous measurements in the reef flat, a deviation from the
typical observations of decreasing SGD influence as the distance from the shore increases.
Salinity measurements both from CTD casts and grab samples also show the input of
fresher waters at the reef front. Resistivity profiles revealed widespread areas with high
sub-bottom resistivity values coinciding with delineated lineaments, high 222Rn
concentrations and fresher seawater salinities. This study aims to further understand the
implications and effects of faults and other geologic factors in the water exchange
dynamics in coastal and fringing reef areas.
Keywords: submarine groundwater discharge, faults, 222Rn, electrical resistivity

Tectonophysics and Stratigraphy
Updated stratigraphy of Ilocos Norte
Jon Dave B. Pillejera*, Julius A. Pasco, Jesley Mei A. Dycoco, Xandr Neal B. Uboan, Richard Miguel
D. Allauigan, France Aleksis Anika E. Uy, Leo T. Armada, Betchaida D. Payot, Allan Gil S.
Fernando, Richard L. Ybaez, and Geology 170 Class of AY 2016-17
National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon
City 1101, Philippines
*corresponding author; pillejerajd@gmail.com
Abstract
Ilocos Norte is located on the northwestern tip of Luzon Island. It is composed of an

Eocene to Pleistocene tectonic melange, sedimentary and volcanic sequences, and
intrusive units. Geologic field mapping was done in order to gather new evidences to
explain the formation and stratigraphic relationship of the different units in the area.
Lineament analysis, stereographic projection and rose diagram analysis were used for
structural analysis. Calcareous nannofossils and foraminiferal assemblages were used to
provide the age of the different sedimentary units.
This work proposes the Dos Hermanos melange as the basement unit of Ilocos Norte. This
Late Jurassic to Early Cretaceous tectonic melange is characterized by a chaotic
assemblage of ophiolitic rocks in a highly sheared and serpentinized matrix. This unit is
thrusted over is the Late Eocene turbiditic and volcanic sequence of the Bangui Formation
and the Early Miocene interbedded clastic and volcanic sequences of the Bojeador
Formation. This is interpreted to be the result of the thrust components of the splays of
the Philippine Fault Zone (PFZ). Moreover, the study proposes the establishment of the
Solsona Intrusive Complex (SIC), which includes andesite and diorite intrusions
previously reported as the Pasaleng Quartz Diorite. The unconformable contact between
the Pasuquin Limestone and the underlying Batac Formation is also first recognized in
this report.
Keywords: Ilocos Norte, Dos Hermanos Melange, Solsona Intrusive Complex
Geology of Caramoan Peninsula revisited
Jasmine Consuelo D. Urquico-Zialcita*, Alfred N. Apolinario, John Michael V. Austria, Ana Marie E.
Binuya, Ruth Esther G. Delina, Yvonne Ivy L. Doyongan, Jeremy James C. Jimenez, Ren Thomas C.
Marquez, Camille Austine O. Muyco, Mark Angelo B. Somosa, Mirko Alessandro C. Uy, Leopoldo
P. de Silva Jr., Allan Gil S. Fernando, and Alyssa M. Peleo-Alampay
*corresponding author; jdurquico@up.edu.ph
Abstract
Published literatures regarding the geology of Caramoan Peninsula are limited. The most recent
comprehensive geologic study was conducted by David et al. (1997) wherein five units have been
described: (1) early Cretaceous Lagonoy Ophiolite serving as the basement, overlain by the (2)
late Cretaceous volcanic arc sequence, Garchitorena Formation and (3) its metamorphosed
counterpart, the Pagsangahan Formation, which in turn are unconformably overlain by (4)
middle Eocene Guijalo Limestone, and (5) Caramoan Formation, composed of flysch and
olistostrome units with no reported stratigraphic relations with the previously mentioned units.
In an attempt to further refine the geologic data for the area, a recent field mapping effort was
conducted by the 2017 Geology 215 Class of UP NIGS. The study aims to augment formational
descriptions with detailed petrographic analysis, refined ages from biostratigraphy, and
additional structural data.
New data confirmed the previously established units in the study area, but show deviations in
terms of lithologic description and geographic extent. Pagsangahan Formation, which was
previously reported to comprise of weakly metamorphosed volcanic arc sequences, were found
to contain marble and intermediate to high grade foliated metamorphic rocks such as phyllite,
schist, and gneiss. Ultramafic rocks were also observed in Quinalasag Island, which was
previously mapped under Pagsangahan Formation (Miranda, 1976). Structural data obtained
from the island suggests a thrust mechanism for the emplacement of the ultramafic rocks.
The recent field mapping also led to the discovery of blocks of fossiliferous limestones bearing
large pelecypods along the eastern coast of Barangay Pandanan which were dated to be
Cretaceous in age. In addition, preliminary paleontological analyses were done on the calcareous
sedimentary units mapped as Garchitorena Formation and Guijalo Limestone. Samples obtained
from the Garchitorena Formation were observed to contain Mesozoic planktonic foraminifera
and calcareous nannofossils, while the fossil assemblage in the samples from the Guijalo
Limestone suggests a Paleogene age. Unfortunately, no index markers were observed in the
samples, hence, the difficulty in constraining the age dates.
Keywords: Caramoan Peninsula, Cretaceous, Paleogene, geology

Batangas April 2017 earthquakes: swarm or foreshocks?
Mario A. Aurelio*, John Agustin P. Escudero, and Richard Victor I. Palma

*corresponding author; maurelio@nigs.upd.edu.ph
Abstract
Between 4 and 8 April 2017, a series of earthquakes occurred in southwestern Batangas,

causing injuries and damage to infrastructure. About 5 of these earthquakes had
magnitudes of Mw 5.0 or greater. Earthquake distribution appears to reveal a NNW
trending rupturing structure unknown in existing active fault maps. Rapid post-
earthquake field mapping in the Mabini peninsula revealed ground fissures oriented
parallel to this earthquake distribution direction. Focal mechanism solutions show
varying fault motions, from right lateral to normal faulting. The first rupture occurred on
4 April with magnitude Mw 5.5, but a greater magnitude earthquake (Mw 6.0) occurred
on 8 April, which suggests two possible scenarios: one in which the earthquakes are
swarms caused by the independent rupture of several unrelated faults, or that the
magnitude Mw 5.5 event of 4 April is a foreshock of the 8 April magnitude Mw 6.0 main
event, both generated by the same fault.
Keywords: seismotectonics, earthquake swarm, foreshock
Poster Presentations
Surface Processes and Hazards SPH-01
Data mining for geohazards: Twitter earthquake detection in Bicol region
Ralph Lauren T. Abainza1* and Dave Louie G. Ang2

1National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101,
*corresponding author; rtabainza@up.edu.ph
2College of Human Kinetics, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101, Quezon City, Philippines
Abstract
Twitter is a popular social networking site known for its micro-blogging serves and real-
time nature. The Twitter posts (tweets) made during the felt earthquake events can
actually be a valuable data that can be mined to enable its detection by simply looking the
spatial and temporal distribution of the posts. The research investigated the effectivity of
using solely the Twitter data in the detection of the earthquakes in Bicol Region from
November 1 to 9, 2017 by studying the tweet frequencies, length, and geolocation of the
posts with keywords lindol and lumindol. The constructed tweet-frequency time
series showed the large peaks correlated with the origin time of the felt earthquakes with
an average of 0.8 minute delays only. The observed length of the tweets of those who
really felt the earthquake event was found to be really short as compared to those who
tweet the keywords for other purposes. The spatial distribution of the tweets obtained
through geocoding enabled the mapping of the general epicentral area of an event.
Furthermore, the 3-minute normalized tweet-frequency was found to be strongly
correlated with the value and distribution of the intensities published by the Philippine
Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) in its Earthquake Bulletins. Even
though the exact location and magnitude of the earthquake cannot be obtained through
Twitter data alone, the tweets provide detection and reliable estimation of the affected
area faster than the broadcast from earthquake monitoring agencies.
Keywords: Social Media, Twitter, Earthquake, Data Mining
LiDAR mapping and field analysis of the central segment of San Miguel Fault in
Bicol, Philippines
Doreen A. Abelinde*, Ely A. Belaos, Jesserie V. Cledera, and Gledalyn M. Magana

Partido State University, Goa Campus, San Juan Bautista St., Goa, Camarines Sur
*corresponding author; abelinde.olyn@gmail.com
Abstract
San Miguel Bay, located between the provinces of Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur, is
surrounded by fishing municipalities in the Bicol Region (Bailey, 1982). It is transected
by the left-lateral strike-slip fault, San Miguel Fault (Mines and Geosciences Bureau, then
BMG, 1981; Lagmay et al., 2004), which presence may pose hazard for the nearby
communities. It extends from northwestern Camarines Norte, across the San Miguel Bay,
to Camarines Sur, and continues offshore to the Lagonoy Gulf. The fault is inferred to be
generated by a releasing bend in the central segment of the Philippine Fault, among other
major structures in the Bicol Basin (Crowell, 1974; Davis and Reynolds, 1996). Light
Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) Digital Elevation Models (DEM) from the PhiLiDAR-1 are
used to delineate the faults central segment, prior to the field verification which yielded
weak evidences of surface manifestation of the fault rupture. This may be explained by
the presence and dome collapse on the NNW portion of Mt. Isarog, a volcano adjacent to
the area (Fontjin and Newhall, 2012) and the seismic inactivity of the fault, or it does not
exist at all.

Slope stability analysis of soil and rock slopes along Sagay-Tiwi road
Jan Rodney D. Biscaro*, Cristina F. Faurillo, Adrian Raymund C. Fernandez, Mary Rose P. Gabuyo,
Jefferson Z. Delfino, Janine L. Israel, Alyssa D. Malonda, Christian Arvi V. Bordeos, Marigrace G.
Lopez, John Rey L. Pan, Erwin R. Reyes, Jhomel D. Collano, Mark Nico P. Doblado, Christian D.
Pacao, and Alecs Lei D. Rodriguez
Partido State University, Goa Campus San Juan Bautista St., Goa, Camarines Sur
*corresponding author; jan.biscaro@gmail.com
Abstract
As communities expand and develop, excavation of slopes is necessary for creating roads
to connect with other communities. In order to not only ensure safety of households
adjacent to roads and commuters passing through but also to efficiently utilize funds in
excavation and maintenance, slope stability analysis is essential. Having the knowledge
of both the geology of the area and appropriate engineering measures and proper design
of slopes cuts will help in analyzing the slopes. Knowing the orientation of discontinuities
(i.e., joints and faults) and their characteristics, rock mass, slope geometry, state of stress,
temperature and erosion are factors that may contribute on how the slope may behave.
Using RocScience softwares (Dips and Slide), the proponents are able to identify unstable
slopes along Sagay-Tiwi road in the three (3) barangays of the Municipality of Sagay,
based on six (6) soil slopes in Barangay Sibaguan, three (3) of which are near
communities; one (1) soil slope and one (1) rock slope in Barangay Bongalon, with one
(1) adjacent to a community; and twelve (12) rock slopes in Barangay Patitinan, with one
(1) near a community. Hazard maps for each barangay are prepared and the proponents
recommend that further and immediate studies and execution of proper mitigating
measures to be applied on each slope.
Geomorphologic assessment and delineation of drainage system in Mt. Isarog

via Remote Sensing Technique using ASTER-GDEM
Mary Rose P. Gabuyo*, Jan Rodney D. Biscaro, Cristina C. Faurillo, Adrian Raymund C. Fernandez
College of Arts and Sciences, Partido State University, Goa, Camarines Sur
*corresponding author; mpgabuyo@gmail.com
Abstract
Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) data

provide detailed information on Earth surface conditions, temperature, and elevation
(JSS, 2011). Digital Elevation Model (DEM) is a 3D representation of terrains surfaces,
created from terrain elevation data (USGS, 2012).8 DEMs have a number of scientific
applications, such as mass movement, terrain parameters extraction and terrain analysis,
and water flow modelling (Wikipedia, 2016). In this study, ASTER-GDEM is used in the
delineation of watersheds inside Mt. Isarog, for probable future utilization of the nearby
municipalities in Partido District. This study specifically aims to evaluate the delineated
watershed using the parameters in line with the standards of PDA. It is divided into three
chief stages: Acquisition of the ASTER-GDEM and water resource data, preliminary
generation of watersheds and field verification of generated results, and formulation of
the final output. Three parameters are accounted for the software analysis: depression
fill depth, resolution, and stream threshold. For a more efficient watershed delineation
the major watersheds from 2500 SCC and the more detailed river and stream flows from
500 SCC are combined. The occurrences of some delineated catchments are verified
through field observations: presence of depressions, gullies, steep borders, and
intermittent and/or consequent streams. A total of 48 catchments and 189
rivers/streams are delineated via remote sensing. Among these, Rangas (with about
11.60km2 surface area) is the biggest. If fully developed, this catchment may serve the
nearby municipalities of Tigaon, Goa, and Sagay.

Examining the general trend of flank collapses in the Bicol volcanic arc: A review
and analysis of existing works and new satellite imagery
Cesar Louie Labadan1*, Angelu Bermas, Jose Santiago Feril, Anthony Mari Gososo, Jamie Mary
Loise Tan, Jannine Vasquez, Criselda Baldago, Richard Ybaez, Audrei Ybaez, and Alfredo
Mahar Francisco A. Lagmay
*corresponding author; louie_labadan@yahoo.com
Abstract
The Bicol region, a part of the Pacific Ring of Fire, contains twelve volcanoes called the
Bicol Volcanic Arc. This series of volcanoes is the result of the Philippine Sea Plate
subducting under the Philippine Mobile Belt, along the Philippine Trench. Two of these
volcanoes such as Mt. Isarog and Mt. Caayunan are underlain by the San Miguel Fault
while Mt. Iriga lies on the Legaspi Fault. Mt. Malinao, on the other hand is adjacent to the
Legaspi Fault. These four volcanoes have well-studied flank collapses influenced by
splays of the Philippine Fault. The general pattern of the four collapses are compared and
studied through compilation of available literature, satellite images, and maps. Mt.
Caayunan has a horseshoe-shaped depression opening to the east known to be a sector
collapse. Mt. Isarog has a debris avalanche oriented sub-parallel to the San Miguel Fault.
Mt. Iriga and Mt. Malinao have debris avalanches almost parallel to the Legaspi Fault.
From the data collected, it can be concluded that the flank collapse of these volcanoes are
oriented parallel or sub-parallel to the underlying or adjacent strike-slip fault. Potential
flank collapse would be expected of the young but maturing volcanoes in the same
configuration and tectonic setting as the Bicol Volcanic Arc. The results of this study can
be used to infer the possible collapse of Mt. Mayon and other volcanoes in the arc and for
other geohazard assessments and economic purposes.
Keywords: Bicol, collapse, Philippines, volcano
GIS-based risk assessment of local communities to landslide and flood hazards:

Example from Los Baos, Laguna, Philippines
Randell B. Pabroquez1*, Noelynna T. Ramos1, Decibel V. Faustino-Eslava2, Leo T. Armada1, Carla

B. Dimalanta1, and Maria Victoria O. Espaldon2
*corresponding author; randellpabroquez@gmail.com
2School of Environmental Science and Management, University of the Philippines Los Baos, Los Baos,
Laguna, Philippines
Abstract
The devastating impacts of geophysical hazards throughout the country prompted the
noticeable shift of government policies towards disaster risk reduction and management
(DRRM). Risk assessment is a strategy of DRRM that locates the areas that should be
prioritized when hazards occur. It is a multi-dimensional assessment that integrates the
characteristics of the hazards to their geophysical and socio-demographic environment.
This study focuses on evaluating the risk of local communities in Los Baos, Laguna to
floods and landslides. The municipality of Los Baos is situated at the southern shorelines
of Laguna de Bay and the northern foot slopes of Mount Makiling. Several of its urban
communities are located along coasts which make them highly susceptible to hydro-
meteorological and geological hazards. Geologic mapping, geophysical surveys, and
geohazards assessment were carried out to describe the physical characteristics of the
area. Interviews were also conducted at different barangays to identify key locations that
are severely affected by flooding and landslides. Geographic Information System (GIS) -
based mapping with Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) were employed to generate
hazard susceptibility maps. Geological and geomorphological factors, population density,
and land use were also evaluated to assess risk of property and population to landslides
and floods. Hazard events were characterized according to their frequency, fatality, and
property damage. Risk of population was derived by integrating the areas population
density to the hazards frequency and fatality. Integrating land use to the hazards
frequency and factor for property damage estimates the areas risk of property damage.
Results show that areas within barangays Batong Malake, Putho-Tuntungin, and
Mayondon have medium to high risk to landslides while the coastal barangays of
Mayondon, Bayog, and Bambang are at medium to high risk to flooding.
Keywords: risk assessment, hazard susceptibility mapping, Geographic Information

System

Quantification of net erosion and deposition in Lagonoy River along Sabang, San
Jose, Camarines Sur
Karen Genel M. Pitallano*, Jaira D. Morales, Jomarie B. Togano, Merejoy E. San Buenaventura, and
Maria Kristina Cassandra R. Corpuz
Partido State University, Goa Campus, San Juan Bautista St., Goa, Camarines Sur
*corresponding author; pitallano.karengenel@gmail.com
Abstract
At the easternmost part of the municipality of San Jose, Sabang is a spit-like landform
bounded by two bodies of water: Lagonoy Gulf and Lagonoy River. Due to its location,
Sabang is considered a hazard-prone barangay, often subjected to floods and storm
surges. Flooding is mainly caused by the overflowing of the Lagonoy River brought mostly
by the typhoons frequently visiting the area. This phenomenon causes bank erosion and
deposition that conveyed the variations in the rivers form and Sabang area. This study
aims to quantify the net erosion and deposition that have occurred in the Lagonoy River
along Sabang and to observe the morphological changes within the rivers form and the
mainland based on satellite images. 1986, 1996, 2007 and 2016 satellite images from
Google Earth are superimposed using GIS software to evaluate net erosion and accretion
in riverbanks. Typhoon data such as its rainfall intensity (mm/day) and maximum wind
(kph) of Bicol region for the given periods were used to associate the riverbank processes
with the occurrence of typhoons. Fieldwork activities (i.e field observations and
household interview) are conducted to validate the primary data gathered. Results show
that high erosion and deposition occurred from 1996 2007 due to high typhoon
frequency while least erosion and accretion were identified from 2007 2016 due to the
low number of tropical cyclones in the area.. It is also observed that the decrease on
erosion and accretion during this period may be related to the construction of the
mitigating measures in the area.
Relative sea level changes in Badoc and Currimao, Ilocos Norte during the
Holocene: Constraints from emergent coral reef terraces
Kathrine V. Maxwell1*, Noelynna T. Ramos1, Hiroyuki Tsutsumi2, Fucai Duan3, Yu-Chen Chou3,
and Chuan-Chou Shen3
1NationalInstitute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman,
Quezon City 1101, Philippines
*corresponding author; katt.maxwell@gmail.com
2Department of Environmental Systems Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Doshisha University,
Kyoto, 610-0394, Japan

3Department of Geosciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan, ROC
Abstract
We examined the emergent coral reef terraces in Badoc Island, Badoc, and Currimao, Ilocos Norte
to understand relative sea level (RSL) changes in northwest Luzon Island during the Holocene. In
the three localities, the Holocene terraces rise up to about 7 to 9 m above mean sea level (amsl)
and are generally well preserved. We identified three to possibly four Holocene terrace steps that
have varied elevations and separated by meter-scale terrace risers. Fossil coral samples were
collected on top of these emergent features and analyzed for U-Th isotopic compositions. These
coral samples yielded 230Th ages that were used to constrain the time of emergence of the coral
reef sequences. Generally, the fossil corals sampled from terraces in Badoc and Currimao reveal
ages between ~7000-6000 years before present (BP) indicative of regressive RSL phases during
the mid-Holocene. Interestingly, we found two sets of coral ages in Badoc Island: mid-Holocene
and late Holocene. The mid-Holocene corals range from 6,871.57 22 to 6,060.87 31 years BP
and were sampled from the surface of TI with an elevation of 1.9 to 3 m amsl. The late Holocene
corals were found at a higher elevation (TIII at 4.9 m amsl) than the mid-Holocene ones and reveal
two sets of ages, 2,727 13 years BP and 945 5903 4 years BP. The inverse ages observed in
Badoc Island, where younger corals are found at higher elevations than mid-Holocene ones, is
atypical since the morphology of coseismically uplifted marine terraces is generally characterized
by a staircase sequence that becomes older towards the highest terrace. Based on the geomorphic
data, the young coral ages derived could potentially mark significant events along northwest
Luzon region during the late Holocene. Around ~2700 years BP, a coseismic uplift event or an
episode of RSL fall probably occurred which caused the mortality of the attached corals. The very
young corals possibly represent the timing of an extreme wave event ~1000 years BP that could
have emplaced the coral boulders on top of the 4.9 m amsl terrace surface. We also observed
apparent tilting of Badoc Island further suggesting that offshore reverse faults could be potential
causative faults. This study highlights the importance of studying emergent coral reef terraces to
understand RSL changes and attendant coastal hazards along northwest Luzon and the Manila
Trench forearc region.
Keywords: tectonic geomorphology, coastal tectonics, 230Th dating, Ilocos Norte, Philippines

Overwash sediments in Zamboanga del Sur, Philippines and their possible

relation to the 1976 Moro Gulf earthquake
Sheinna May D. Claro1*, Noelynna T. Ramos1, Kathrine V. Maxwell1, and Daisuke Ishimura2
1NationalInstitute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101,
*corresponding author; sdclaro@up.edu.ph
2Department of Geography, Tokyo Metropolitan University, 1-1 Minami-Osaka, Hachioji City, Tokyo 192-
0397, Japan
Abstract
In the midnight of 17 August 1976, rupture along the east-dipping Cotabato Trench
generated a Mw8.1 tsunamigenic earthquake which affected the coastal areas bordering
the Moro Gulf in southern Philippines. Several hundreds of casualties and millions-worth
infrastructure and livelihood were damaged. Decades after the most devastating tsunami
in Philippine history, little is still known on the potential of the Cotabato Trench to
generate large magnitude earthquakes. Recent studies on trench systems worldwide
have demonstrated the usefulness of sediment analysis in estimating the recurrence of
tsunamigenic earthquakes. This study therefore aims to characterize the coastal
sediments in areas inundated by the 1976 tsunami event (e.g., Pagadian City, San Pablo,
and Tukuran in Zamboanga del Sur). Sampling on mangrove swamps was conducted
through shallow excavation of around 30-40 cm, and coring by 1-m-long hand auger and
Handy Geoslicer. A sedimentary sequence typical of a tidal flat setting was observed in
Pagadian City. This is described by interlaminations of mud and sand with sand and/or
mud lenses. Meanwhile, in a core sampled behind a mangrove swamp in San Pablo, a sand
layer with an erosive base was observed on top of an organic-rich peaty layer. Grain size
and geochemical analyses were performed on the 10- to 15-gram samples collected at
10- to 15-cm intervals while representative subsamples were dated using C-14. Sediment
samples are generally barren of microfossils and are composed of mud- to very coarse
sand-sized detrital grains of mica, quartz, diorite, andesite, pumice, and other volcanic
and pyroclastic rock fragments. Geochemical analysis showed that common saltwater
indicators such as S, Cl, Br, Sr and Ba were present in a core from White Beach, Pagadian
City while only S, Br, Sr, and Ba were present in San Pablo. Radiocarbon ages, in 2-sigma
(95%) age range probability, reveal young sediments preserved in the shallow
stratigraphic record at three different sites: 1416-1490 AD (organic-rich layer) at 65-cm
deep in San Pablo, 1445-1524 AD (plant material) at 100-cm in Poloyagan, and 1184-
1275 AD (wood) at 120-cm in White Beach. These initial data on the coastal sediments
may serve as baseline characteristics of potential tsunami deposits in Zamboanga del Sur,
western Mindanao Island.
Keywords: Moro Gulf earthquake, tsunami, overwash sediments, Zamboanga del Sur
Long-term deformation and historical wave events across northwest Mindoro

islands deduced from fossil corals and reef terraces
Noelynna T. Ramos1*, Kathrine V. Maxwell1, Hiroyuki Tsutsumi2, and Chuan-Chou Shen3

*corresponding author; noelynna.ramos@up.edu.ph
2Department of Environmental Systems Science, Faculty of Science and Engineering, Doshisha University,
Kyoto, 610-0394, Japan

3Department of Geosciences, National Taiwan University, Taipei 10617, Taiwan, ROC
Abstract
Coastal geomorphic features in Cabra and Lubang islands in northwest Mindoro were
studied to constrain ancient sea level fluctuations brought about by global relative sea
level changes and/or episodic movement of nearby offshore faults (e.g., Manila Trench,
Lubang-Verde Passage Fault System). We mapped three to four Late Pleistocene
(inferred) steps of fossil coral reefs rising up to 45 m above mean sea level (amsl) while
at least three Holocene steps of up to 12 m amsl were recognized. The maximum elevation
of Holocene coral reef terraces also appear to be lower in northwest Lubang Island (5 m
amsl) than in Cabra Island (12 m amsl), indicating a variable deformation pattern. Six
coral samples yielded thorium-230 ages ranging from 518716 to 1422 years BP and
possibly highlight the timing of global sea level fluctuations (i.e., mid-Holocene sea level
highstand) or local strong wave events (e.g., tsunami, typhoon) in the past. Youngest coral
ages may also provide interesting insights on reported historical tsunami and/or typhoon
events that occurred approximately 100 to 400 years ago, affecting the southwest Luzon
region. From the height and age data of emerged coral reefs in Cabra and Lubang Islands,
we infer a Late Pleistocene uplift rate of 0.4 mm/yr and a Holocene uplift rate of 1.25
mm/yr for the northwest Mindoro region. Understanding the uplift mechanisms of
emerged notches and coral reef terraces in these islands allows us to evaluate the seismic
potential of nearby active faults and the hazards these faults pose to densely populated
coastal zones.
Keywords: fossil coral reefs, relative sea level changes, coastal hazards, Occidental
Mindoro

Early warning experience for rainfall-induced landslide in Brgy. Pinagkamaligan,

Calauag, Quezon
Roy Albert N. Kaimo*, Angelica C. Jacela, and Renato U. Solidum, Jr.

Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, C.P. Garcia Avenue. U.P. Campus, Diliman, Quezon City,
1101 Metro Manila
*corresponding author; roy.alkai@gmail.com
Abstract
On September 11, 2017, tropical cyclone Maring made landfall in the Philippine Area of
Responsibility (PAR) and brought heavy rains in most part of Southern Luzon, including
Quezon Province. Heavy rains triggered a landslide alert at the Dynaslope Project site in
Brgy. Pinagkamaligan, Calauag, Quezon based on exceedance of 1-day cumulative rainfall
threshold established by the Project. Around 6:00 AM of September 12, the slope failed.
Post-landslide assessment was conducted to verify prior landslide hazard information.
Result of the mapping shows that the extent of the landslide closely coincided with the
delineated hazard zone. The landslide was triggered by rainfall that is twice the 2-year
maximum daily rainfall. There were minor movements detected by the subsurface sensor
which may be considered as precursor of the landslide. This event highlights the
importance of establishing hazard information which is vital in the successful
implementation of a landslide early warning system.
Keywords: Landslide, rainfall, hazard, early warning
Mineral and Energy Resources MER-01
Geochemistry of nickeliferous laterite deposits in Palawan, Zambales and Surigao

Del Norte: A comparative study
Rio Jasper Ruelo1*, Nancy Aguda1, Dr. Carlo Arcilla1,2, Botvinnik Palattao2, Angelo Panlaqui1,2,
Rolando Reyes2, and Jeff Vargas1
*corresponding author; rjbruelo@gmail.com
2Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Commonwealth Avenue, Diliman, 1101
Abstract
Laterite soil is defined as the product of chemical weathering of ultramafic rocks. Nickel,
together with iron and chromium, are found to occur in economical volume in laterite
profiles. These three metals are key ingredients for the production of stainless steel. In
recent years, the Philippines is considered one of the most prominent raw exporter of
nickel ore in the world. Hence, the scientific studies of Philippine laterites become more
relevant and timely.
Using the results of numerous laboratory analyses of different Philippine samples,

evaluation of the geochemical characterization of nickel laterite profiles from different
regions will be shown. Geochemical and crystal phase analyses are used in determining
the presence of strategic minerals. Since most laterites are weathered, clay mineral
analysis using X-ray powder diffraction (XRD); similarly defined full laterite profile
samples ranging from > 0.1% or 1000 ppm major oxides were identified using Wave
dispersive x-ray fluorescence spectrometer (WDXRF), while inductively coupled plasma
mass spectrometry (ICPMS) for minor and trace elements.
Multi-elemental analysis of Palawan samples showed similar trends as those observed in

Zambales and Surigao Del Norte laterites, both in limonitic and saprolitic horizons. With
increasing depth, the Fe2O3 and Al2O3 contents are gradually decreasing, whereas SiO2
and MgO contents are increasing. Ni enrichment can be found in limonite-saprolite
boundary with an average quantity of 1.29%. The results also show that minor and trace
elements Co and Sc of Palawan samples are enriched in the lower portion of limonite layer
of the profile at a depth of about 6 meters while Ti is enriched in upper most layer of the
profile. CaO from Zambales samples show enrichment in the saprolite layer at a depth of
7 meters. The general trend of Sc occurrence in Surigao laterites also shows enrichment
in the lower limonite zone moderately decreasing as it reaches the saprolite zone.
Keywords: Laterite, Geochemistry, WDXRF, Scandium

Mineral and Energy Resources MER-02
Modeling adiabatic boiling in relation to the scaling potential of the neutral

enthalpy fluids in the Biliran Geothermal Field
John Paul A. Mendoza1*, Maria Ines Rosana Balangue-Tarriela1, and Mark H. Reed2
1National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines, Diliman (1101), Quezon City,
Philippines
*corresponding author; jmendoza@nigs.upd.edu.ph
2Department of Earth Sciences, College of Science, University of Oregon, Eugene, Oregon, USA
Abstract
Boiling is a very common process in geothermal wells where the primary water quickly
ascends to the surface and decreases temperature due to the conversion of liquid water
to steam. An assumption to this system is that there is no heat exchange between wall
rock and boiling water, thus it becomes isenthalpic. The study aims to examine the
equilibrium condition in the well, determine the changes in the fluid composition of a
particular well as it ascends to the surface and to identify which minerals would
precipitate out of the solution at certain temperature conditions. This information is
useful for producing geothermal fields since issues such as scaling may be predicted and
can be properly addressed.
Using FORTRAN Programs GEOCAL, SOLVEQ and CHIM-XPT, geothermometry and

adiabatic boiling was simulated for the normal enthalpy fluids of the (1982-1983)
exploratory wells of Biliran geothermal field. Applying FixAl method, results of the
theoretical geothermometry for the wells are consistent with the reported chemical
geothermometers (silica and Na-K-Mg geothermometry) and the maximum measured
temperature at the bottom hole. During the fluids ascent, significant amount of CO2 goes
in the steam phase thus increasing the pH. Both wells initially produced certain chlorite
minerals (in the first few temperature increments) in the initial boiling process followed
by talc and calcite (from about 200C to almost up to the boiling temperature). Results
for BN-1 is consistent with the abundance of calcite in the core cuttings according to
reports in previous studies while BN-2 precipitated aragonite instead of calcite which
was attributed to the lower Ca/Mg ratio in the well.
Petrology and Geochemistry PG-01
Geochemistry and petrogenesis of andesitic dykes in Gasgas and Pinas River,

Ilocos Norte, Philippines
Jacquelyn O. De Asis1*, Jamil M. Hadji Alawi2, Timothy Glenn P. Iringan, and Denise Faye S. Janer4
*corresponding author; jodeasis@up.edu.ph
Abstract
The magmatic arc bordering the easternmost part of Ilocos Norte in Solsona is part of the
Central Cordillera, which is formed by the subduction of the South China Sea Plate along
the Manila Trench. This magmatic arc is intruded by extensive andesitic dikes, as
observed both in Gasgas and Pinas River, Solsona. However, no stratigraphic relationship
between the dikes and recognized formations has been established. Geochemical
characterization of the dikes was done to correlate the intrusives with existing
geochemical data of proximal igneous bodies and to establish a petrogenetic relationship
among the units. The geochemical analyses were performed by XRD, XRF, and ICP-MS
while petrographic analysis of the samples was used to verify the mineral assemblage,
texture, and rock identification of the samples.
Keywords: Geochemistry, petrography, petrogenesis, dykes, Ilocos Norte

PG-02
Petrographic assessment of hardened concrete deterioration due to acid mine

drainage attack
Jeremy James C. Jimenez1*, Carlo A. Arcilla1,2, Noelson Jude M. Dequito3, Loui P. Lebeco3, and
Timothy S. Lazaro3
1National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101, Quezon City
*corresponding author; jcjimenez2045@gmail.com
2Philippine Nuclear Research Institute, Diliman 1101, Quezon City
3Mining, Geology, and Ceramics Engineering Department, Adamson University, Ermita 1000, Manila City
Abstract
Acid mine drainage (AMD) is a serious environmental concern that can also affect infrastructures.
AMD is generated by the oxidation of sulphidic ores extracted by mining activities producing a
generally acidic pollutant. Concrete is known to be unstable under conditions of low pH with
numerous studies detailing acid attacks and sulfate attacks (internal and external). However, the
effects of acid mine drainage on concrete have been poorly documented, save for a pioneering
study by Eklovu et al. in 2016. Concrete under AMD attack was observed to contain gypsum
(CaSO42H2O) as an expansive deterioration product which may line cracks. Gypsum is generated
from reactions between sulfate ions and portlandite (Ca(OH) 2), a cement hydration product. This
study aims to characterize this form of deterioration in the Philippines using concrete
petrography.
6 Samples exposed to acid mine drainage were obtained from a concrete spillway of the Manila
Mining Corporation Placer Project in Surigao Del Norte. Samples heavily exposed to AMD and
relatively unexposed (fresh) were selected for comparison. Microscopy was used to determine
the extent of deterioration as well as the presence of deterioration products of the hardened
concrete samples. Gypsum is the primary deterioration product and is seen to precipitate along
air voids with some samples having cracks adjacent to infilled voids. Gypsum needles range from
very minute to clusters of relatively coarse (0.25 mm) needles infilling 0.75 mm wide air voids.
Extensive carbonation and alkali-aggregate attacks were also observed in some samples.
The presence of gypsum as the primary deterioration phase helps support similar observations
of AMD attack on concrete. Carbonation is the result of the conversion of portlandite into calcite
by reactions with carbon dioxide which may lower the pH of the concrete and may potentially
lead to corrosion of reinforcements. Alkali-aggregate attack on the other hand is due to the
presence of reactive forms of silica which may be dissolved by alkalis and form an expansive gel.
AAR in the samples is relatively limited and manifests as internal cracking in reactive aggregates.
Carbonation is inferred to have happened after the formation of gypsum given the occurrence of
some carbonated gypsum needles. Future studies may contribute to the understanding of this
form of deterioration which may potentially help with possible mitigations to the problem that is
AMD.
Keywords: Concrete Petrography, Microscopy, Acid Mine Drainage
Petrology and geochronology of gabbros from the Pujada Ophiolite, SE Mindanao
Valerie Shayne V. Olfindo1*, Betchaida D. Payot1, Efren G. Gadot, Jr. 1, Barbie Ross B. Villaplaza1,
Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera1, and Kenichiro Tani2
1Rushurgent Working Group Laboratory, National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the
Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City
*corresponding author; valfindo@gmail.com
2Department of Geology and Paleontology, National Museum of Nature and Science, Tsukuba-shi, Ibaraki,
Japan
Abstract
The Pujada Ophiolite is a well-preserved oceanic crust sequence located at the southeastern most tip
of the Philippines in Mindanao. It is believed to be the northernmost extension of the Molucca Sea
Collision Complex at the southeastern edge of Mindanao. Despite its good preservation and interesting
location, geologic information on the Pujada Ophiolite is limited. In this study, petrographic and
geochemical characterization of the gabbros of the Pujada Ophiolite will be presented to constrain its
origin. Radiometric ages will also be reported for the first time using the Laser Ablation Inductively
Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry (LA-ICP-MS) U-Pb dating of zircons from the gabbros of the
Pujada Ophiolite.
The gabbros of the Pujada Ophiolite are medium to coarse-grained gabbros, olivine gabbros and
troctolites. The samples are characterized by cumulate texture with a crystallization sequence of
olivine, clinopyroxene and plagioclase. The ternary plot of FeO-MgO-Na2O+K2O whole rock
composition of the gabbros (AFM diagram; Irvine and Baragar, 1971) reveal tholeiitic composition.
Chondrite-normalized patterns show flat REE patterns similar to N-MORB.
For the U-Pb dating, three samples of gabbros from different localities yielded zircons; 04A (Sergio
Osmea), 03 (Cabuaya) and 02B (Bitaogan). Back scattered and cathodoluminescence imaging
showed anhedral shape and weak zoning of the zircons. Some of the zircons are also highly fractured.
The Th/U ratios of the zircons are generally higher than 0.1 which suggest a magmatic origin. The
concordia plots of the lead isotope ratios show a general clustering of concordant ages at 90 Ma.
Sample 04A has a weighted and corrected mean average age of 89.7 2.0 Ma while samples 03 and
02B has a weighted and corrected mean average age of 89.6 6.7 Ma and 90.57 4.2 Ma, respectively.
Discordant ages intercept the concordia line at 87 to 89 Ma. Secondary standards (FC-1 and OD3)
analyzed together with the zircons obtained from the gabbros were also consistent with their
previously reported ages and thus imply an accurate age determined for the three unknown samples.
The petrographic and geochemical signatures of the Pujada gabbros reveal a possible mid-ocean ridge
tectonic origin. U-Pb dating of the zircons obtained an accurate age of Turonian, Late Cretaceous (~90
Ma). The age obtained from the zircons is older than the age previously reported (Campanian to
Coniacian, Late Cretaceous) for Pujada Ophiolite based on radiolarian chert. The age and geochemical
signatures obtained from the gabbros of the Pujada Ophiolite may be correlated to other ophiolitic
rocks within the Molucca Sea Collision Complex which may help constrain the origin of the Pujada
Ophiolite.
Keywords: Pujada Ophiolite, gabbros, zircons, Cretaceous-Turonian

Petrography of the intrusive units in the Ilocos-Central Valley Basin
Miya Shairah S. Pamutan*, Mari Shylla G. Joaquin, Margaret E. Matacot, and Gabriel Theophilus V.
Valera
National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman 1101
*corresponding author; shairahyim@yahoo.com.ph
Abstract
The Ilocos Norte province is situated at the northwestern tip of Luzon and forms part of
the Ilocos-Central Luzon Basin stratigraphic group. Recent geologic mapping revealed
that the basement of the region is composed of the Cretaceous Dos Hermanos Mlange
which is unconformably overlain by the Eocene to Oligocene Bangui Formation. The
Bangui Formation is comprised of pillow and massive lavas overlain by turbiditic
volcaniclastic units. These basement units are in turn overlain by Miocene volcanic rocks
and younger clastic units.
Plutonic bodies intruding the basement units were mapped in two separate localities
during the Geology 170 class last June 9-26, 2017. A smaller unit outcrops in the
municipalities of Pagudpud, Ilocos Norte, and Sta. Praxedes, Cagayan. This body is
correlated with the late Early Miocene Pasaleng Quartz Diorite. A more extensive
exposure of andesite-diorite bodies was also mapped further south in the municipality of
Solsona, Ilocos Norte on the western flank of the Central Cordillera. In the field, the
exposures in Pagudpud are composed of at least 10 cm thick dikes of andesites intruding
massive diorite outcrops. In other areas, 25 meter wide diorite intrusions were observed
cutting though massive andesite outcrops. In the municipality of Solsona, a 5 cm
leucocratic diorite intrudes a melanocratic diorite outcrop. Initial petrography of the
diorites revealed interlocking coarse-grained amphibole, k-feldspar and plagioclase
crystals. No olivine crystals were found in any of the samples. At the regional scale, the
characteristics of these intrusive units are similar and can be correlated to the
intermediate intrusives of the Central Cordillera Diorite Complex.
Keywords: Diorites, Ilocos Norte, Intrusive units
Petrogenesis of the layered ultramafic rocks of the Palawan Ophiolite
Betchaida D. Payot1*, Jeanne Myrtia M. Macalalad1, Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera1, Juan Miguel
Guotana2, and Valerie Shayne V. Olfindo1
*corresponding author; bdpayot@up.edu.ph
2Department of Earth Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kakuma, Kanazawa 920-1192, Japan
Abstract
Extensive and well-preserved exposures of layered ultramafic rocks were mapped along
the west coast of central Palawan. Such lithologies were previously not reported as part
of the Palawan Ophiolite. The layered ultramafics are dominantly olivine and pyroxene-
rich rocks, varying in composition from dunite, clinopyroxenite, websterite and rare
gabbronorite. The layers range from 2 cm to 2 m thick and generally dip towards the NE.
The partly serpentinized dunites are mainly composed of olivine and spinel with minor
pyroxenes. The olivine websterite, clinopyroxenite and gabbronorite show
mesocumulate to adcumulate textures and are dominantly composed of clinopyroxene,
orthopyroxene and minor olivine. Plagioclase occurs as an interstitial phase only in the
gabbronorite. Olivine and pyroxenes are the main cumulus phases and formed prior to
the plagioclase. This crystallization sequence typifies arc rocks.
The olivine in the dunite shows high forsterite (=85-88) and low NiO wt% (<0.25 wt%).
Spinel in the dunite have high Cr# (=0.55-0.65) and low TiO2 (<0.1 wt%). Both the
clinopyroxene and orthopyroxene in the dunite, olivine websterite and clinopyroxenite
show high Mg# (88-93 for clinopyroxene; 85-88 for orthopyroxene) with Al2O3 content
below 2 wt %. Plagioclases in the gabbronorite have high An content (>An90) while the
pyroxenes show slightly lower Mg# (76-81 for clinopyroxene; 73-74 for orthopyroxene).
These geochemical characteristics further imply an arc origin for these rocks.
Keywords: layered ultramafic, ophiolite, Palawan

Characterization of the andesite flows of the Bangui Formation and Pugo

Formation using geochemistry and petrography
Aletheia O. Amandy, Paul Albert Frederick P. Castillo, Earl Matthew SD. Sabile *, Cris Reven B.
Gibaga, and Carlo A. Arcilla
*corresponding author: earlmatthew.sabile@gmail.com
Abstract
During the 2017 UP NIGS Geology 170 Fieldwork, samples of andesitic flows from the
areas of Burgos and Solsona, Ilocos Norte were collected. Initial assessment of the
samples done by UP NIGS Geology 170 class associated the said andesitic flows into the
andesite flows of the Bangui Formation based on stratigraphic correlation. But due to the
proximity of the Solsona Area to the Central Cordillera Area, and the similarity of the
andesitic flows to the ones observed during the 2016 UP NIGS Geology 112 Fieldwork in
the Baguio District, it was inferred that the obtained andesitic flows from Ilocos Norte
and the andesitic flows of the Pugo Formation in the Cordillera are the same. Despite its
probable similarities based on its macroscopic description, little is known to truly
correlate the two formations. The study aims to determine the chemical and optical
properties of the andesite flows of the Bangui Formation and Pugo Formation. This would
aid in the proper correlation of the volcanic section of the Bangui formation and the Pugo
Formation leading to a better understanding of the geology of the Ilocos Region.
Characterization of andesite samples (both from Burgos and Solsona Area, and Pugo
Formation) were done via petrographic analysis and X-ray fluorescence (XRF). It was
found that the andesite flows obtained from the Bangui Formation and Pugo Formation
has geochemical and petrographical similarities based on the data that was obtained.
Keywords: andesites, petrography, geochemistry
Revisiting the basement rocks of Cebu Island, Philippines
Sarena P. Tarongoy1*, Betchaida D. Payot1, Jillian Aira S. Gabo-Ratio1, Carla B. Dimalanta1,

Noelynna T. Ramos1,2, Decibel V. Faustino-Eslava3, Leo T. Armada1, and Efren G. Gadot, Jr.1
Philippines, Diliman
*corresponding author; sptarongoy@up.edu.ph
2Geomorphology, Earthquakes, and Active Tectonics Research Laboratory, National Institute of Geological
Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman

3Earth Systems Research Team, School of Environmental Science and Management, University of the
Philippines, Los Baos, Laguna
Abstract
Previous works have reported schists and ophiolitic lithologies as the basement rocks in Cebu
Island. Our recent fieldworks in the areas of Minglanilla, Talisay, Cebu City and Tuburan reveal
the limited occurrence of serpentinized peridotites, metagabbro, amphibolite and hornblendite.
Only the metagabbros and peridotites were encountered as continuous outcrops in Bulacao River
and Camp 7, respectively. The amphibolite and hornblendite were noted as boulders along the
Languyon River.
The serpentinized peridotites show variable degrees of serpentinization. In the less serpentinized
harzburgites, coarse grains of orthopyroxenes occur as porphyroclasts surrounded by olivine,
spinel and serpentine. Some of the peridotite samples have been completely converted to
serpentinite. The medium-grained metagabbros are dominantly composed of subhedral
plagioclases with interstitial hornblendes. The coarse-grained amphibolites have replacive
amphiboles formed at the expense of primary pyroxenes. Elongated epidote and fibrous prehnite
along the boundaries of amphiboles are also noted in metagabbro and amphibolite, respectively.
Both the metagabbros and amphibolites have slight to moderate foliation separating the silicate
and mafic minerals. Fibrous, radiating and deformed talc and chlorite are also observed in the
serpentinized harzburgite, metagabbro and amphibolite. The hornblendite is mainly composed
of hornblende with minor interstitial plagioclase. Hornblendes in the hornblendite exhibit triple
junctions.
The presence of talc and chlorite in some of the serpentinized harzburgites suggests that these
rocks are also metamorphosed and can be considered as metaperidotites. The ubiquitous
occurrence of amphiboles which exhibit triple junctions in the different lithologies suggests
hydration and recrystallization. Initial mineral chemistry data show spinel Cr# of 0.38 to 0.50 for
the serpentinized harzburgites. Olivine forsterite content is 90.25 to 90.90 with NiO wt% of 0.31
to 0.37. Anorthite content of the plagioclases in metagabbro and amphibolite ranges from An 26 to
An44-. Mg# of amphiboles is 0.59 to 0.77 with CaO content of 10.63 to 11.69 wt%. The wide range
of the Mg# of the amphiboles may indicate the possible late involvement of a hydrous arc magma.
Keywords: basement rocks, Cebu, petrography, mineral chemistry, amphibole

Petrological insights on the evolution of the Babuyan segment, Luzon arc
Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera1*, Betchaida D. Payot1, Shoji Arai2, Satoko Ishimaru3, and Miyuki
Takeuchi2
1Rushurgent Working Group, National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines,
Diliman 1101, Quezon City, Philippines
*corresponding author; gvvalera@up.edu.ph
2Department of Earth Sciences, Kanazawa University, Kakuma, Kanazawa, Ishikawa 920-1192, Japan
3Department of Earth and Environmental Science, Kumamoto University, Chuo-Ku, Kumamoto 860-8555,
Japan
Abstract
Petrological data from mafic-ultramafic xenoliths of the Sabtang island of the West Volcanic Chain
(WVC) and Mt. Cagua of the East Volcanic Chain (EVC) of the Babuyan segment, Luzon Arc were
utilized to determine how the subduction of a buoyant oceanic plateau (Northwest Luzon ocean
bathymetric high) affected the evolution of the Babuyan segment. Geochemical data on the exhumed
products of the different volcanic centers were also compiled and combined with the recent
geophysical findings in the region to come up with an updated model on the formation of the double
arc structure in the Babuyan segment, Luzon arc.
The Sabtang xenolith suite is comprised of pyroxenites, gabbros, hornblendites and dunites. The
petrological characteristics of Sabtang xenoliths such as high An content (An89-98) of plagioclases, high
Mg# of clinopyroxenes (=0.73-0.93), negative anomalies in HFSE (e.g. Zr, Ti, and Nb), and enrichment
in LREE and LILE (e.g. Rb) in the chondrite-normalized trace element composition of clinopyroxenes
suggest formation via high pressure fractional crystallization of arc-related magma at the base of
Sabtang island. On the other hand, the Mt. Cagua xenoliths are dominantly comprised of gabbros with
occasional hornblendite. Similar to the Sabtang xenoliths, the petrographic and geochemical
signatures of the Mt. Cagua xenoliths indicate derivation from high pressure-temperature
crystallization of arc magma. However, clinopyroxenes in the Mt. Cagua gabbros and horblendites
record lower Mg#, higher Na2O and higher HFSEs concentration in contrast to the Sabtang xenoliths.
These evidence among others, indicate that the Mt. Cagua xenoliths were derived from a more evolved
melt that probably crystallized at a slightly shallower depth.
Furthermore, the granoblastic texture in some xenoliths from both localities which postdates the
extensive formation of amphiboles, and the elevated LREE contents of clinopyroxenes in the
pyroxenites and gabbroic xenoliths of Sabtang reveal the different effects that the buoyant plateau
subduction had in the petrological evolution of the region. The enriched signature in the Sabtang
xenoliths is comparable to the younger Mt. Iraya xenoliths but is not observed in Mt. Cagua xenoliths.
This clearly suggest that while the introduction of the buoyant oceanic plateau caused the locus of
magmatism to shift from WVC to EVC in the Babuyan segment, the enrichment of the mantle wedge
cannot be solely attributed to this process as interpreted in the past. Rather, the varying composition
of the subducting slab along the Babuyan segment may have played a more crucial role in the
petrological evolution of the island arc than previously proposed.
Keywords: Northwest Luzon ocean bathymetric high, xenoliths, subarc, lower crust
Geodynamic implications of the sedimentary sequences in the Pujada Peninsula:

Clues from petrography and geochemistry
Barbie Ross B. Villaplaza1*, Valerie Shayne V. Olfindo1, Efren G. Gadot, Jr.1, Betchaida D. Payot1,
Gabriel Theophilus V. Valera1, Carla B. Dimalanta1, and Graciano P. Yumul, Jr.2
1Rushurgent Working Group, National Institute of Geological Sciences, College of Science, University of
the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City, Philippines
*corresponding author; bbvillaplaza@up.edu.ph
2Apex Mining Company Incorporated, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines
Abstract
Petrographic and geochemical evidence from the clastic members of the sedimentary
sequences overlying the Pujada Peninsula and Mati, Davao Oriental were gathered to
unravel the tectonic history of the Pujada Peninsula.
The Eocene Sanghay Formation is composed of feldspathic greywackes. These are

characterized by angular to sub-rounded grains of detrital plagioclase, pyroxene, olivine,
lithic volcanics and sandstone fragments set in a plagioclase-rich matrix. The Late
Miocene to Pliocene Sigaboy Formation has a direct erosional contact with the Pujada
Ophiolite and consists of the lower Monseratt Conglomerate and an upper La Union
Sandstone. The Monseratt Conglomerate is composed of polymictic conglomerates with
rounded clasts of peridotites, gabbro, basalt, amphibolites, red and green mudstones and
tuffaceous sandstones from the underlying rock units. The La Union Sandstone is
composed of rhythmic interbeds of tuffaceous sandstone, siltstone and mudstone.
Initial geochemical data show that the major oxide contents of the Sanghay Formation
has contrasting signatures compared to the Sigaboy Formation. Trace element data and
ratios also indicate varying provenance for these rock units. The Sanghay Formation was
derived from basaltic to andesitic sources, which are probably related to the volcanism
along the Halmahera arc during the Late Cretaceous to Early Pliocene. The conglomerates
of the Sigaboy Formation clearly indicate inputs from the Pujada Ophiolite. Its finer clastic
members have mafic and relatively more felsic sources, which could possibly be
attributed to the Sangihe arc. Geochemical data, however, indicate that these rock units
were formed and deposited in an oceanic island arc setting. Our results, along with
information from other rock units in the area, can thus be used to obtain insights on the
geodynamic history of the Pujada Peninsula.
Keywords: Pujada Peninsula, greywacke, provenance, oceanic island arc

Interdisciplinary Geosciences IG-01
A review on the current state of microplastics in marine and freshwater systems
Timothy Glenn P. Iringan1* and Caroline Marie B. Jaraula2

1National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines Diliman, Quezon City
*corresponding author: timothy.iringan@gmail.com
2Organic and Stable Isotope (OASIS) Geochemistry Laboratory (OASIS), Marine Science Institute, Diliman,
Quezon City
Abstract
Reportedly extending to even the abyssal plains of ocean basins, plastic pollution has
become a serious threat to aquatic systems. Microplastics (MP) are a size class less than
5 mm in size. They are especially concerning because they are more easily spread and
ingested by life forms in all trophic levels. Although a relatively new field of study, the
past year alone has produced numerous research with finds on its toxicity to marine
invertebrates and fishes. MP are proven to be vectors of fish pathogen and are found to
cause bleaching and tissue necrosis to corals. Surveys have mapped out MP in various
source to sink environments, and models for transport and accumulation are constructed.
Most MP are concentrated in oceanic gyres and abyssal plains, but are ubiquitous in all
marine bodies and most of their freshwater counterparts. Exploration of these pollutants
are well under way, but many key points are still unchecked, such as specific sources and
overall environmental impact, especially for freshwater systems.
Particulate carbon inventory of sediments in varying environmental conditions in

Bolinao-Anda, Pangasinan
Ernest P. Arceo1, Mary Dominique P. Sampan1, Geleen Rica Javellana2, and Caroline Marie B.
Jaraula2
1Universityof the Philippines Integrated School
2Organicand Stable Isotope (OASIS) Geochemistry Laboratory (OASIS), Marine Science Institute, Diliman,
Quezon City
Abstract
The waters of Bolinao-Anda, Pangasinan is known for its extensive aquaculture activities
which resulted to numerous fish kill events in the last three decades. Despite the
multitude of studies conducted, there is insufficient data on the inventory of particulate
carbon in the area. This study aims to quantify organic and carbonate carbon in varying
environmental conditions in Bolinao-Anda, Pangasinan. Sediment samples were
collected from six sites: three along a known submarine groundwater discharge site in
Guiguiwanen Channel, one in Tambac Bay and two in Bati-arao, Anda. Using Loss On
Ignition, particulate organic and carbonate carbon compositions of sediments were
determined. Based on dry weight, two contrasting sites yield the highest organic carbon
content of as much as 9.5%; reef associated seagrass-seaweed system in Bati-arao rivals
organic carbon content in an enclosed lithic-rich mariculture seascape in Tambac Bay. It
is likely that the lower dissolved oxygen content in Tambac Bay enhances preservation
of organic matter compared to the more open environment in Bati-arao that promotes
degradation and export of organic matter. This also suggests that the carbonate system
in Bati-arao is highly productive, sequestering atmospheric and dissolved carbon
efficiently. This area in Bati-arao represents end-member carbonate system in the
partitioning of particulate carbon for the study area. Another end-member carbon
partitioning is the lithic-rich (92%), carbonate (7.2%) and organic (0.8%) carbon-poor
site along Guiguiwanen Channel, which is closest to the terrestrial environment.
Compared to ambient seawater, an SGD-influenced site have comparable lithic and
carbonate contents, however organic carbon is slightly enhanced in the latter. This is
evidence for organic carbon augmentation in SGD-influenced sites and that with channel
and tidal dynamics can contribute to carbon cycling dynamics and partitioning in this
area.
Keywords: particulate organic carbon, Bolinao, loss on ignition, carbon partitioning

Mapping coral reefs using low-cost side scan sonar and satellite imagery
in Masinloc, Zambales, Philippines
Paul Caesar M. Flores and Fernando P. Siringan

Geological Oceanography Laboratory, The Marine Science Institute, University of the Philippines, Diliman,
Quezon City
Abstract
Coral reefs in shallow and clear waters are easily seen in satellite images. However, coral
reefs and coral communities may extend to depths beyond 30 meters. Mapping these
features beyond the reach of satellite images are essential in management. Side scan
sonars (SSS) which cost less than 1000 USD, can provide acoustic images of the seafloor
to depths of 40 m. Combined with spot optical images or grab samples, the side scan
images can be used in mapping the seafloor. Masinloc is a municipality in the province of
Zambales, Philippines that has well developed reefs in San Salvador and Magalawa
Islands. Satellite images show that reefs extend ~0.5 km from the western coast of San
Salvador and ~1 km from northern Magalawa. This study aims to determine the extent of
these reefs using low-cost SSS. A dual-frequency SSS operating at 86/455 kHz was used
to collect single-beam bathymetric data and sonar images of the seafloor. The
bathymetric data was then interpolated using tirangulation method. The SSS images were
mosaicked and classified accordingly based on the type of substrate. The survey area is
gently sloping and covers 2.34 km2 with a depth range of 1.5-117 m. SSS images show
that the shallow reefs extend to depths up to 40 m, to a distance of ~0.5 and 0.75 km
further offshore in western San Salvador and northern Magalawa, respectively.
Overlaying the bathymetric data and satellite image indicate that water depth in the reef
detected by the satellite images is <5 m. Thus, combining low cost SSS and satellite
imagery in mapping reefs can give a better definition of the extent of the coral reef.
Tectonophysics and Stratigraphy TS-01
Self-Potential measurements along Daang Kastila, Taal Volcano
Paul Karson B. Alanis1*, Naomi V. Pallera1, Jerome E. De Lima1, Paolo D. Reniva1, Jacques
Zlotnicki2, Allan M. Loza1, and Renato U. Solidum Jr.1
1Philippine
Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, PHIVOLCS Building C.P. Garcia Avenue UP Campus,
Diliman 1101, Quezon City, Philippines;
*corresponding author; paul.alanis@phivolcs.dost.gov.ph
2CNRS, OPGC, UBP_UMR6524, 4 av Blaise Pascal, 63178 Aubire, France
Abstract
Taal Volcano (N1400.1', E12059.1') is one of the most active volcanoes in the
Philippines. Because of its frequent activity, numerous eruption centers and proximity to
Metro Manila, the volcano is extensively monitored and studied by the Philippine
Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). Monitoring systems include water
and gas chemistry, ground deformation measurements (precise leveling, electronic
distance measurements and GPS), seismology and electromagnetics.
The study of the generation mechanisms of various tectonic events such as earthquakes
and volcanic eruptions by means of electromagnetic (EM) methods is called the Tectono-
Electro-Magnetics (TEM) method. TEM is based on four different kinds of
electromagnetic observations, i.e. magnetic field, resistivity, electric field or self-potential
(SP) and electromagnetic emissions. Although each item in TEM observations has been
studied so far rather separately, a recent trend is to combine all these items at the same
target area. From 2005 onwards, electromagnetic methods have been utilized to monitor
time and spatial changes in the hydrothermal system underneath Taal Volcano. Among
these is the use of the Self-Potential (SP) method. This passive method measures the
natural surface potentials resulting from electrochemical reactions in the subsurface.
High temperature and SP values were consistently observed throughout all the profiles.
These anomalies correspond to the current active thermal fissures which are associated
with the presence of a hydrothermal system underneath.
Keywords: tectono-electromagnetics, self-potential method, Taal Volcano, hydrothermal

system

Geophysical characterization of the Manila Trench region using gravity and

magnetic data
Creszyl Joy J. Arellano1*, Leo T. Armada1, Carla B. Dimalanta1, and Noelynna T. Ramos1,2
Philippines, Diliman
*corresponding author; arellanocreszyljoyj@gmail.com
2Geomorphology, Earthquakes, and Active Tectonics Research Laboratory, National Institute of Geological
Sciences, College of Science, University of the Philippines, Diliman
Abstract
The recent ORV-041 cruise conducted last 2014 gathered new geophysical data in the
area between Taiwan and Luzon Island along the Manila Trench, where the South China
Sea crust subducts beneath the Philippine Mobile Belt (PMB). Substituting the typical
density values of crust for seawater, the Bouguer gravity values were determined along
several transect lines across the trench and forearc region. The values were subsequently
used to estimate the Moho depth in the area. Power spectral analysis of the magnetic data
was also done to determine the Curie point depth (CPD) of the study area. CPD represents
a magnetic boundary and it can be correlated with heat flow.
Calculations derived from the gravity data yielded Moho depths ranging from 14 to 33
kilometers. In general, the trench serves as a boundary for the Moho depth values in the
region. Towards the South China Sea, shallower Moho depths were observed while
deeper Moho depth values were calculated towards the Luzon island. Features such as
the accretionary prism, forearc basin and seamounts correspond to deeper Moho. Areas
characterized by shallow bathymetry and higher elevation are characterized by deeper
Moho while deeper areas are characterized by shallower Moho. The CPD values range
from 12 to 28 km. The trench, being a high heat flow zone coincides with the shallowest.
Keywords: Manila Trench, gravity, magnetics, Moho depth, Curie Point Depth
Understanding Philippine ophiolites: Clues from new geophysical and geologic

data
Carla B. Dimalanta1*, Juan Miguel R. Guotana1, Pearlyn C. Manalo1, Betchaida D. Payot1,

Decibel V. Faustino-Eslava2, Karlo L. Queao3, and Graciano P. Yumul, Jr.3
1Rushurgent Working Group, National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines,
Diliman, Quezon City
*corresponding author; cbdimalanta@up.edu.ph
2 Earth Systems Research Team (EaRT), School of Environmental Science and Management, University of
the Philippines, Los Baos, Laguna

3Apex Mining Co. Inc., Ortigas Center, Pasig City
Abstract
Ophiolites form a major part of the basement complex of the Philippines. Our knowledge of
Philippine ophiolites is based on geologic, petrological and geochemical data from previous
studies. Several ophiolite zonations had been proposed which grouped the ophiolites into belts
based on their geographic distribution, geochemistry and age. Such regional correlations were
based on the comparison of available data from the different ophiolites.
Recent studies report more detailed petrological and geochemical interpretations and improved
age constraints on the formation and emplacement of these ophiolite bodies. Moreover, in the
past few years, new geophysical, paleontological and geochronological data have been generated
for the ophiolites exposed in Ilocos, Zambales, Palawan, Sibuyan, Amnay, Masbate, Cebu and
Samar. New geochemical techniques applied on ophiolite studies provided more detailed results
and interpretations on their petrogenesis. Previously, the ages of Philippine ophiolites were
determined mostly on the basis of paleontological analyses. However, more radiometric datings
of the Philippine ophiolites have become available which helped further constrain their ages.
With the recent establishment and setting up of the paleomagnetic laboratory, we have also
started acquiring paleomagnetic data from some of the ophiolites. These paleomagnetic data
helped enhance tectonic reconstructions through its spatial constraints. Our recent geophysical
investigations gave insights on crustal thickness and subsurface configurations of these upper
mantle-oceanic crust sequences. Provenance studies using sedimentary petrography and
geochemistry have also been applied lately on the sedimentary units overlying the ophiolite
sequences. The resulting data offered insights on the unroofing or exhumation histories of the
ophiolite bodies.
This study provides a synthesis of the latest available data on Philippine ophiolites. The possible
implications on our understanding of the evolution of the Philippine island arc system will thus
have to be revised in light of these new data.
Keywords: ophiolite, geophysics, geochemistry, paleomagnetism, sedimentary geochemistry

ABC of Philippine Geology: illustration and description of geological features and

landscapes in the Philippines
Allan Gil S. Fernando*, Clarence Y. Magtoto, Kerve M. Supnet, Justin Jorge Rosales-Padre, and
Nannoworks Laboratory
National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101
Philippines
*corresponding author: asfernando@up.edu.ph; agsfernando@yahoo.com
Abstract
Because of its unique geologic history and location, the Philippines is blessed with diverse
and complex features that, sadly, most people dont recognize and appreciate as products
of hundreds to millions of years of plate interaction, volcanism, sedimentation,
weathering, erosion and other geologic processes. The main objective of the project is to
educate and inform people about the importance of the Philippines as a natural
laboratory for geology through a book that will illustrate and discuss (in laymans terms)
how the different geologic features in our country formed. A similar endeavor is being
done by Dr. Alyssa M. Peleo-Alampay of UP NIGS on the distribution of fossils in the
Philippines.
The project is called ABC of Philippine Geology because it will illustrate for each letter
several geologic features or processes that can be observed in the Philippines. Each letter
of the alphabet will be represented by pictures with short write-ups regarding their
relevance to the geologic history of our country.
Keywords: Philippines, geology
Possible new species of a four-rayed discoaster from IODP 363 sites in the Indian
Ocean and Pacific Ocean
Allan Gil S. Fernando1*, Tom Dunkley Jones2, Luc Beaufort3, Denise K. Kulhanek4, and IODP
Expedition 363 Scientists
1National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City 1101
Philippines
*Corresponding author; asfernando@up.edu.ph; agsfernando@yahoo.com
2 School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston,
Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom

3 CEREGE, Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS), Aix-Marseille Universit, Aix en Provence
13545, France
4 International Ocean Discovery Program, Texas A&M University, 1000 Discovery Drive, College Station
TX 77845, USA
Abstract
A possible new species of a 4-rayed discoaster was observed within nannofossil Zones
NN16 to NN18 (late Pliocene to early Pleistocene) at IODP Expedition 363 Sites in the
eastern Indian Ocean and western Pacific Ocean. Initial shipboard observations suggest
possible affinity with Discoaster brouweri based on similarity in ray tip morphology,
although subsequent analysis suggests differences in inter-ray angles and ray orientation
between the undescribed discoaster and the other documented 4-rayed varieties of D.
brouweri. The biostratigraphic and paleoceanographic significance of the 4-rayed
discoaster, as well as its relationship with other Discoaster species, will be discussed in
the paper.
Keywords: IODP 363 Expedition, discoasters, Indian Ocean, Pacific Ocean

Notes on the occurrence of Plio-Pleistocene brachiopods in the Philippines
Jose Dominick S. Guballa* and Allan Gil S. Fernando

*corresponding author; jsguballa@up.edu.ph
Abstract
Fossil brachiopod research in the Philippines is limited to very few literature, and are
only mentioned briefly in taxonomic notes of Cooper (1957, 1978). This work aims to
describe and classify and document thirty-two (32) brachiopod specimens collected from
two localities in the Philippines, which will contribute to the study of brachiopod
taxonomy in the country.
The brachiopods were collected from mudstone layers in an interbedded sequence in

northwest Leyte mapped as part of the Pliocene-Pleistocene Formation C of Majima et
al. (2007). Brachiopods from Bolinao were collected from thick- to medium-bedded
limestone units probably belonging to the Pliocene-Pleistocene Bolinao Formation. The
specimens were morphologically studied through measurement of different physical
parameters.
Brachiopods examined from Bolinao, Pangasinan and northwest Leyte most probably
belong to Family Terebratulidae (Order Terebratulida) and Family Dallinidae (Order
Terebratulida), respectively. Comparison of fossil specimens to living terebratulids
suggest a cryptic mode of life in reefal environments for specimens in Bolinao.
Brachiopods in Leyte were found together with chemosynthetic mollusks in living
position. A more thorough description of the internal arrangement and morphology of
the brachial valve is needed for a more systematic identification of the brachiopod
samples.
Keywords: brachiopods, Bolinao, Leyte, Terebratulida
Late Early Miocene Sedimentary Sequences of Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte
Jenny A. Prado*, Mel Vincent B. Gumboc, Aya P. Pagal, and Maria Wencie A. Napay
Partido State University, Goa, Camarines Sur
*corresponding author; ghieprado@gmail.com
Abstract
Quaternary alluvium is defined in the northern part of Jose Panganiban, Camarines Norte
(BMG, 1975). Presence of consolidated sedimentary rocks is noted from previous
undergraduate geologic fieldworks (2013 and 2015) of the BS Geology classes in ParSU.
This provided an opportunity to describe in detail the sedimentary sequences, update the
geologic map and correlate it with the local formations. Mudstones interbedded with
sandstone are found extensively in the study area. It is overlained by indurated, massive,
calcareous, very fine to coarse-grain sandstone. Occasional conglomerates of semi-
rounded to rounded pebble-sized very fine- to fine-grained sandstone and mudstones
clasts, medium-sized sandstone matrix, cemented by calcareous materials are
intercalated with sandstone and mudstone beds. Lowly indurated and poorly sorted
calcarenite deposits capped the older lithologies. Beds are generally SW-dipping except
in some outcrops where synsedimentary folding and thrust faulting occurred; with
occasional faults and extensive joints cutting the rock units. The lithologies are
interpreted to be deposited by high density turbidity currents on shallow marine to
continental slopes and are part of the lower Bouma Sequence. Fossils of Sphenolithus
belemnos from lower mudstone units indicate Late Early Miocene age.
This is closely related to that of Bosigon Formation which is Early Miocene (Miranda and
Caleon, 1979; adapted from Pea, 2008). Correlation however, is difficult because (1) age
of the sequences in the area is still not a reliable basis; and (2) formations found in
literature are poorly described. Thus, researchers recommend petrographic analysis of
sandstone and other lithologies to further define its composition and provenance and
confirmatory geologic mapping to delineate the extent of lithologies. Moreover, conduct
of studies to refine description and distribution of lithologies belonging to stratigraphic
formations mentioned in the literature is recommended.
Keywords: calcareous nannofossils, Bouma sequence, turbidity current, correlation,

Camarines Norte

Joint inversion of 1D velocity model and earthquake hypocenter relocation for

Kanlaon Volcano
Winchelle Ian Sevilla*, Lois Abigail Jumawan1, Mari-Andylene Quintia, Christian Joseph Clarito,
Marinel Pernuela, Ma. Antonia Bornas, and Renato U. Solidum, Jr.
Volcano Monitoring and Eruption Prediction Division, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology,
Diliman 1101, Quezon City, Philippines
*corresponding author; winchelle.sevilla@phivolcs.dost.gov.ph
Abstract
Kanlaon volcano (10o 24.7 N, 123o 7.9 E), located in Negros Island, is one of the most
active volcanoes in the Philippines having erupted at least 27 times since 1866. It is part
of the Negros Volcanic Arc associated with the eastward subduction of the Sulu Sea basin
along the Negros Trench. Recently, the Kanlaon Volcano seismic network has recorded a
surge in volcanic earthquakes. Accurate earthquake locations are critical in determining
the magma pathways and migration and more importantly in assessing the status of
Kanlaon. To obtain an accurate location requires a reasonable seismic velocity model. In
this study, we utilized VELEST program to estimate a minimum 1D velocity model and
corresponding station corrections for Kanlaon using body wave arrival times. A total of
252 local events spanning between 2014 and September 2017 comprised the dataset,
each having azimuthal gaps of <180, RMS values of <0.5 seconds, location errors of
<10km, and a minimum of 5 P- and S-phase readings. In order to minimize the coupled
hypocenter-model problem, we used 7 initial reference velocity configurations during the
inversion process. We used the new, optimized velocity model to relocate the volcanic
earthquakes in particular the long period earthquakes that were recorded since May
2017, which occur at mid-to-lower crustal depths. These earthquakes are commonly
associated with the movement of magma and associated fluids deep in the crust. In
several volcanoes, these earthquakes have been observed to occur prior or during
eruption. Identifying and characterizing the occurrences of these earthquakes in Kanlaon
volcano is critical in assessing its condition especially since its last magmatic eruption
was in 1902.
Keywords: Kanlaon Volcano, seismic velocity model, earthquake relocation, deep long
period earthquakes
Paleogene and Neogene fossils of the Philippines
Alyssa Peleo-Alampay*, Maria Caezare Cario, Timothy Iringan, and Czarina Tierra
Nannoworks Laboratory, National Institute of Geological Sciences, University of the Philippines
*corresponding author; ampeleoalampay@up.edu.ph
Abstract
Fossils are the remains or traces of organisms that have been buried in the earths crust
for a long period of time. These are the most tangible records in rocks of life and
environments of the earths past. Although the study of fossils have been part of
geological studies since it began in the Philippines, there has been a dearth in efforts to
consolidate information focused on fossils of the Philippines. This study addresses this
by identifying representative fossils of the Paleogene and Neogene in addition to
gathering previous literature focused on the fossils of these periods. This consolidation
of Philippine fossil knowledge from different sources will be a useful database and
reference for all those interested in the geologic past of the Philippines, for earth
scientists and the public alike.

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Paladtaan 2017: New Perspectives

Program and Abstracts

Dr. Noelynna T. Ramos

Creszyl Joy J. Arellano

John Romel R. Flora

Ma. Criselda B. Baldago

John Agustin P. Escudero

Registration and Opening Ceremonies

State of global and national exploration initiatives: As a Filipino geologist, where

Graciano P. Yumul, Jr.*1 and Carla B. Dimalanta2

Philippines, Diliman, Quezon City

Having attended the recent GSP-initiated Continuing Program for Development

Conquest, Curse and Climax

Circumstance and Conclusion

14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium | 3

Natural hazard cascades in the Philippines from 2010 to 2017

Keywords: hazards cascades, Philippines, DRRM Act

Morphometric analysis of debris-flow susceptible alluvial fans in the Philippines

Francesca V. Llanes1, Alfredo Mahar Francisco A. Lagmay1, and Kelvin S. Rodolfo2

14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium | 5

Controls of landslides in Southern Benguet and Eastern La Union, Philippines

Landslide inventory mapping provides detailed information about the distribution of

Keywords: Landslide, Southern Benguet, La Union, GIS

Monitoring diffuse CO2 degassing of Taal Volcano

14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium | 7

Mineralization characteristics of the Suyoc epithermal deposit, Mankayan,

Vein type Homogenization temperature Salinity

Quartz carbonate vein 240-250C 0.72-2.75 wt.% NaCl

Quartz vein 250-260C 1.41-3.71 wt.% NaCl

Quartz-sulfide vein 230-250C 0.37-2.09 wt.% NaCl

Keywords: Suyoc, epithermal, vein, sulfide, alteration

Mineralization in the Sangilo epithermal deposit: Insights from field,

3Itogon-Suyoc Resources Incorporated, Sangilo, Itogon, Benguet, Philippines

4Apex Mining Company Incorporated, Ortigas Center, Pasig City, Philippines

Keywords: Baguio Mineral District, epithermal deposit, porphyry copper system

14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium | 9

Fluid mineral equilibria of hot spring waters in selected active Philippine

Rosana Balangue-Tarriela*, Austin Camille Muyco, and Cleodette Lagata

To understand better the underlying geothermal systems, SOLVEQ, a Fortran-based

Keywords: hotsprings, SOLVEQ, fluid-mineral equilibria

Olivine-hosted fluid inclusions in the dunite xenoliths from Mt. Pinatubo,

Keywords: Pinatubo, dunites, mantle wedge, fluid inclusions

14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium | 11

Relationship of crustal thickness to the magma type of Philippine volcanoes:

Diliman, Quezon City

Keywords: Crustal thickness, silicic volcanism, island arcs, Philippine volcanoes

Petrological characteristics of peridotite and gabbro clasts of the Dos Hermanos

Keywords: Ilocos Norte, mlange, peridotite, gabbro, petrography, geochemistry

14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium | 13

Geology and engineering processes determine the quality of mining-influenced

Gabriel P. Pamintuan, Jr.

The contribution of geology and engineering processes to acid mine drainage-metal

Occurrence of Submarine Groundwater Discharge (SGD) on a faulted reef front in

Danica Linda Mancenido* and Fernando Siringan

This paper presents an investigation of submarine groundwater discharge (SGD) in

Keywords: submarine groundwater discharge, faults, 222Rn, electrical resistivity

14th National Institute of Geological Sciences Research Symposium | 15

Updated stratigraphy of Ilocos Norte

Ilocos Norte is located on the northwestern tip of Luzon Island. It is composed of an

Keywords: Ilocos Norte, Dos Hermanos Melange, Solsona Intrusive Complex

Geology of Caramoan Peninsula revisited

Keywords: Caramoan Peninsula, Cretaceous, Paleogene, geology