DOST Batangas apologizes for using casual tone to report earthquake
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Batangas has issued a statement following their posts about the recent earthquake in Calatagan, which received criticism for its tone.
Some of their posts, which are now deleted, included casual remarks such as "Opo, lumindol. Wait for updates" and "Ito po yung update."
Another update read: "Kung ganun daw ba dapat mag-update ng lindol? Alangan naman pong 'Juskupo, Juskupo!'"
On Tuesday, Jan. 21, DOST Batangas said the posts were meant to "provide timely information" to the public.
"We acknowledge the concern raised regarding our recent Facebook post about the occurrence of an earthquake," the statement read. "The post was made to provide timely information and prompt our audience to stay updated."
It said they have used a "trending line that resonates with today's digital culture" but clarified that their intention "was never to downplay the seriousness of earthquakes or undermine the credibility of our organization."
"Earthquakes are a critical matter, and we deeply respect the role of PHIVOLCS (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) in ensuring public safety and awareness," it added.
"If the tone or context of the post was misconstrued, we sincerely apologize for any misunderstanding it may have caused. Likewise, we sincerely extend our apologies to PHIVOLCS for this incident and assure everyone that we will be more mindful in crafting our communications, all with the aim of fostering a deeper appreciation for science, technology, and innovation among Filipinos. Thank you for your understanding," the statement ended.
On Monday, Jan. 20, at around 6:43 p.m., a magnitude 5.5 earthquake struck the waters off Occidental Mindoro. PHILVOLCS said intensity 1 was felt in Muntinlupa and intensity 3 was felt in Taguig, Quezon City, and Makati.
