RWG

The Rushurgent Working Group (RWG) is the first multi-disciplinary research team at the University of the Philippines - National Institute of Geological Sciences (UP-NIGS), and is widely recognized for leading the way in regional geologic studies. The RWG was formed in 1991 when Dr. Graciano P. Yumul Jr. initially brought together a group of researchers working on igneous petrology, geochemistry, economic geology and exploration geophysics. Over the years, it has grown and expanded as researchers with other specializations joined the RWG.

RWG integrates a wide range of methods and scientific disciplines to advance the understanding of the complex tectonic setting and evolution of the Philippine island arc system. The group's research expertise spans Igneous Petrology and Geochemistry, Exploration and Marine Geophysics, Metamorphic Petrology, Sedimentary Geochemistry, Economic Geology, Environmental Science and Neotectonics.

Members of the RWG have been recognized for their outstanding contributions. Their work has earned accolades, including the prestigious Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos Award, the Outstanding Young Scientist Award, the National Research Council of the Philippines Achievement Award, and the UP Scientific Productivity System Award.

News

RWG in ICREMER’s Short Stay Program: Resources, Research, and Responsibility

June 16 to July 08, 2026

Congratulations to our 2026 MS and BS Geology Graduates!

July 05, 2026

Bridging Theory and Practice: RWG Successfully Conducts Refresher Workshop in Geophysics

June 29 to 30, 2026

Publications

Ou, X. F., Liu, H. Q., Yumul Jr, G. P., Dimalanta, C. B., Payot, B. D., Valera, G. T. V., Li, J., Zhang, L., Huang, X. L., & Xu, Y. G. (2026). Light Mo isotope composition of arc front adakites from western Northern Luzon, Philippines: products of fore-arc subduction erosion? Lithos, 108593.

Alcancia, M. L., Payot, B. D., Valera, G. T. V., Gabo-Ratio, J. A. S., Sangalang, K. J. F., Balanial, N. M., & dC Perez, A. (2026). Magmatic constraints from intrusive rocks in western Philippines: Implications for incipient island arc formation and Eocene tectonics in Southeast Asia. Geoscience Frontiers, 17(4), 102338.

Cuevas, J. G., Cari, J. E. E., Principe, J. A., Tamondong, A. M., Dimalanta, C. B., & Armada, L. T.(2026). Assessment of groundwater potential in North-Central Palawan using remote sensing and geophysical analysis of fractured basement aquifers. ISPRS Annals of the Photogrammetry, Remote Sensing and Spatial Information Sciences, X-5/W4-2025, 197–203.