Recognizing the importance of the study of volcanoes in generating information necessary for disaster-preparedness measures, the article is generally a discussion of the volcanic centers in the Philippines, the potential risks that settlements face due to volcanic and related hazards, and some possible approaches and techniques in mitigating these. To some extent, the article provided historical data on the disasters experienced by the country due to volcanic eruptions that hints on what might be anticipated in preparing for such disasters in the future. Finally, the study suggests some roles that urban planning might play relative to built-up areas near volcanoes that now result from population expansion.