Secretaria Regional dos Assuntos Parlamentares e Comunidades
Lançada edição especial da Revista “Açorianidade” dedicada aos 50 anos da Autonomia dos Açores
Lançada edição especial da Revista “Açorianidade” dedicada aos 50 anos da Autonomia dos Açores
Secretaria Regional do Ambiente e Ação Climática
Regional Government marked World Environment Day on Graciosa Island
Regional Government marked World Environment Day on Graciosa Island
Secretaria Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego
Applications now open for free and certified short-term training courses under "Digital Youth" programme
Applications now open for free and certified short-term training courses under "Digital Youth" programme
Secretaria Regional da Juventude, Habitação e Emprego
Press release
Press release
Nota de Imprensa
June 6, 2026 Lançada edição especial da Revista “Açorianidade” dedicada aos 50 anos da Autonomia dos Açores A Secretaria Regional dos Assuntos Parlamentares e Comunidades acaba de editar o terceiro número da revista semestral bilingue “Açorianidade”, em edição especial inteiramente dedicada à celebração dos 50 anos da Autonomia da Região Autónoma dos Açores. A nova revista produzida pela Direção Regional das Comunidades está publicada em formato impresso e digital e foi apresentada pelo Presidente do Governo dos Açores, José Manuel Bolieiro, no dia 26 de maio, por ocasião da sessão de abertura do Conselho da Diáspora Açoriana, realizada no Palácio da Conceição, em Ponta Delgada. Esta publicação, com 204 páginas, conta com prefácio do Secretário Regional dos Assuntos Parlamentares e Comunidades, Paulo Estêvão, e editorial do Diretor Regional das Comunidades, José Andrade, reunindo testemunhos dos sucessivos presidentes do Governo: João Bosco Mota Amaral (1976-1995), Alberto Romão Madruga da Costa (1995-1996) em memória, Carlos César (1996-2012), Vasco Cordeiro (2012-2020) e José Manuel Bolieiro (desde 2020). João Bosco Mota Amaral recordou que “quando a Autonomia Constitucional foi estabelecida, vão fazer este ano 50 anos, dominava a preocupação de afirmar as características identificativas do Povo Açoriano. As correntes políticas então dominantes em Portugal eram contra tal identidade, mas isso nada nos preocupava, cientes como estávamos da razão que nos assistia". É igualmente recordada nesta edição uma intervenção de Alberto Romão Madruga da Costa, proferida na sessão solene comemorativa dos 10 Anos de Autonomia, na Assembleia Regional dos Açores, a 4 de setembro de 1986, na qual afirmava que “a Autonomia é o escancarar de portas à criatividade inteligente de um povo que, dia a dia, aqui e noutras paragens do mundo, constrói a sua região e o seu país”. Carlos César considerou, por seu turno: "Cinquenta anos depois de constituído o primeiro Governo dos Açores é bom não esquecermos que a nossa terra e o mundo mudaram, mas que os açorianos, na nossa terra ou no mundo, não deixaram nem nunca deixarão de o ser”. Por sua vez, Vasco Cordeiro considerou que “a Autonomia dos Açores, quer enquanto projeto coletivo de transformação económica, social e cultural, quer enquanto instrumento de afirmação identitária, não dispensa, para a concretização dos seus objetivos, o reconhecimento e a valorização da existência e do contributo da Diáspora Açoriana”. Finalmente, José Manuel Bolieiro escreve que “o reconhecimento constitucional da Autonomia Política dos Açores não resultou apenas de uma reorganização administrativa do Estado, mas do reconhecimento de um povo com história, cultura e vontade próprias”. A edição integra igualmente contributos dos presidentes de 19Casas dos Açores espalhadas pelo mundo: Lisboa (Delfina Porto), Norte (Miguel Azevedo), Região Centro (Francisco Coelho Gil) e Madeira (Carlos Madruga da Costa), em Portugal; Rio de Janeiro (João Leonardo Soares), São Paulo (Marcelo Stori Guerra), Rio Grande do Sul (Viviane Peixoto Hunter), Santa Catarina (Sergio Luíz Ferreira), Maranhão (Raphael Guará), Minas Gerais (Cláudio Motta) e Espírito Santo (Nino Serôdio), no Brasil; Quebeque (Paula Ferreira), Ontário (Suzanne da Cunha) e Winnipeg (José Santos), no Canadá; Nova Inglaterra (Francisco Viveiros), Hilmar (George Costa) e Havai (Marlene Hapai), nos Estados Unidos da América; Bermuda (Lúcia Botelho) e Uruguai (Alicia Quintana Díaz). Colaboram também nesta edição especial os Conselheiros da Diáspora Açoriana, representantes eleitos pelos açorianos no exterior para o mandato 2025-2029: Richard Ambrósio, da Bermuda; Regis Gomes (Rio Grande do Sul), Marcos Borba (Rio de Janeiro), Marcos Pinheiro (Santa Catarina), António Arruda (São Paulo) e Vânia Silva (restantes Estados), do Brasil; Esmeralda Cabral (British Columbia), Paulo Cabral (Manitoba), Matthew Correia (Ontário) e Carlos de Almeida (restantes Províncias e Territórios), do Canadá; Zeto Carvalho (Califórnia), Danny de Melo (Massachusetts), David Pimentel e Katherine Soares(restantes Estados), dos Estados Unidos da América; Rui Medeiros Silva (Portugal Continental e Região Autónoma da Madeira) e Tiago Domingues (resto do Mundo). A edição especial encontra-se disponível em formato digital, Revista Açorianidade N.º 3, permitindo a sua divulgação junto das diferentes comunidades da diáspora açoriana. Em breve, ficará igualmente acessível para consulta no Portal do Governo dos Açores, na página da Direção Regional das Comunidades, em Publicações - Direção Regional das Comunidades - Portal As duas primeiras edições da Revista “Açorianidade”, lançadas em 2025, dedicadas ao I Colóquio “Pensar a Diáspora” e ao Fórum Global do Espírito Santo, encontram-se igualmente disponíveis para consulta e descarregamento no mesmo Portal. A revista “Açorianidade” reafirma o compromisso contínuo do Governo dos Açores com o fortalecimento dos laços entre a Região e as suas comunidades, promovendo a partilha de ações e iniciativas que enriquecem a relação entre o arquipélago e a sua diáspora.
June 6, 2026 Lançada edição especial da Revista “Açorianidade” dedicada aos 50 anos da Autonomia dos Açores A Secretaria Regional dos Assuntos Parlamentares e Comunidades acaba de editar o terceiro número da revista semestral bilingue “Açorianidade”, em edição especial inteiramente dedicada à celebração dos 50 anos da Autonomia da Região Autónoma dos Açores. A nova revista produzida pela Direção Regional das Comunidades está publicada em formato impresso e digital e foi apresentada pelo Presidente do Governo dos Açores, José Manuel Bolieiro, no dia 26 de maio, por ocasião da sessão de abertura do Conselho da Diáspora Açoriana, realizada no Palácio da Conceição, em Ponta Delgada. Esta publicação, com 204 páginas, conta com prefácio do Secretário Regional dos Assuntos Parlamentares e Comunidades, Paulo Estêvão, e editorial do Diretor Regional das Comunidades, José Andrade, reunindo testemunhos dos sucessivos presidentes do Governo: João Bosco Mota Amaral (1976-1995), Alberto Romão Madruga da Costa (1995-1996) em memória, Carlos César (1996-2012), Vasco Cordeiro (2012-2020) e José Manuel Bolieiro (desde 2020). João Bosco Mota Amaral recordou que “quando a Autonomia Constitucional foi estabelecida, vão fazer este ano 50 anos, dominava a preocupação de afirmar as características identificativas do Povo Açoriano. As correntes políticas então dominantes em Portugal eram contra tal identidade, mas isso nada nos preocupava, cientes como estávamos da razão que nos assistia". É igualmente recordada nesta edição uma intervenção de Alberto Romão Madruga da Costa, proferida na sessão solene comemorativa dos 10 Anos de Autonomia, na Assembleia Regional dos Açores, a 4 de setembro de 1986, na qual afirmava que “a Autonomia é o escancarar de portas à criatividade inteligente de um povo que, dia a dia, aqui e noutras paragens do mundo, constrói a sua região e o seu país”. Carlos César considerou, por seu turno: "Cinquenta anos depois de constituído o primeiro Governo dos Açores é bom não esquecermos que a nossa terra e o mundo mudaram, mas que os açorianos, na nossa terra ou no mundo, não deixaram nem nunca deixarão de o ser”. Por sua vez, Vasco Cordeiro considerou que “a Autonomia dos Açores, quer enquanto projeto coletivo de transformação económica, social e cultural, quer enquanto instrumento de afirmação identitária, não dispensa, para a concretização dos seus objetivos, o reconhecimento e a valorização da existência e do contributo da Diáspora Açoriana”. Finalmente, José Manuel Bolieiro escreve que “o reconhecimento constitucional da Autonomia Política dos Açores não resultou apenas de uma reorganização administrativa do Estado, mas do reconhecimento de um povo com história, cultura e vontade próprias”. A edição integra igualmente contributos dos presidentes de 19Casas dos Açores espalhadas pelo mundo: Lisboa (Delfina Porto), Norte (Miguel Azevedo), Região Centro (Francisco Coelho Gil) e Madeira (Carlos Madruga da Costa), em Portugal; Rio de Janeiro (João Leonardo Soares), São Paulo (Marcelo Stori Guerra), Rio Grande do Sul (Viviane Peixoto Hunter), Santa Catarina (Sergio Luíz Ferreira), Maranhão (Raphael Guará), Minas Gerais (Cláudio Motta) e Espírito Santo (Nino Serôdio), no Brasil; Quebeque (Paula Ferreira), Ontário (Suzanne da Cunha) e Winnipeg (José Santos), no Canadá; Nova Inglaterra (Francisco Viveiros), Hilmar (George Costa) e Havai (Marlene Hapai), nos Estados Unidos da América; Bermuda (Lúcia Botelho) e Uruguai (Alicia Quintana Díaz). Colaboram também nesta edição especial os Conselheiros da Diáspora Açoriana, representantes eleitos pelos açorianos no exterior para o mandato 2025-2029: Richard Ambrósio, da Bermuda; Regis Gomes (Rio Grande do Sul), Marcos Borba (Rio de Janeiro), Marcos Pinheiro (Santa Catarina), António Arruda (São Paulo) e Vânia Silva (restantes Estados), do Brasil; Esmeralda Cabral (British Columbia), Paulo Cabral (Manitoba), Matthew Correia (Ontário) e Carlos de Almeida (restantes Províncias e Territórios), do Canadá; Zeto Carvalho (Califórnia), Danny de Melo (Massachusetts), David Pimentel e Katherine Soares(restantes Estados), dos Estados Unidos da América; Rui Medeiros Silva (Portugal Continental e Região Autónoma da Madeira) e Tiago Domingues (resto do Mundo). A edição especial encontra-se disponível em formato digital, Revista Açorianidade N.º 3, permitindo a sua divulgação junto das diferentes comunidades da diáspora açoriana. Em breve, ficará igualmente acessível para consulta no Portal do Governo dos Açores, na página da Direção Regional das Comunidades, em Publicações - Direção Regional das Comunidades - Portal As duas primeiras edições da Revista “Açorianidade”, lançadas em 2025, dedicadas ao I Colóquio “Pensar a Diáspora” e ao Fórum Global do Espírito Santo, encontram-se igualmente disponíveis para consulta e descarregamento no mesmo Portal. A revista “Açorianidade” reafirma o compromisso contínuo do Governo dos Açores com o fortalecimento dos laços entre a Região e as suas comunidades, promovendo a partilha de ações e iniciativas que enriquecem a relação entre o arquipélago e a sua diáspora.
Nota de Imprensa
June 5, 2026 Regional Government marked World Environment Day on Graciosa Island The Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, marked today World Environment Day on the island of Graciosa. He emphasised that this occasion aims to “alert and raise awareness amongst the entire community of the importance of preserving our planet and the complex environmental challenges we face, such as climate change, environmental pollution, the destruction of ecosystems and the depletion of natural resources.” The government official emphasised that “ the key theme for World Environment Day in 2026 is climate action, an issue that has been a priority for the Government.” In this regard, he added that “the date was marked on Graciosa, an island classified as a Biosphere Reserve, which has distinguished itself in various environmental fields, particularly in terms of energy transition, decarbonisation and the production of renewable energy.” Alonso Miguel noted that, “in addition to the implementation of a wide range of climate action tools and projects, such as the Regional Climate Change Programme, the LIFE IP Climaz Project and the Roadmap for Carbon Neutrality in the Azores, the Regional Government has placed a strong emphasis on environmental literacy. He pointed out that success in this challenge depends not only on appropriate public policies, but also on the involvement of society as a whole and, above all, on the individual commitment of every citizen.” The Regional Secretary also emphasised that schools are key agents in disseminating information and knowledge, playing an essential role in shaping citizens who are better prepared, more aware and committed to the future of the planet. For this reason, the Regional Secretariat organises the School Environmental Awareness Activities Programme (OASAE) every year, aimed at all regional schools. According to Alonso Miguel, “the OASAE for the 2025/2026 school year comprises a total of 65 activities designed for all levels of education, covering various thematic areas such as climate change, nature conservation, water resources and the circular economy.” “I would like to point out that, since the implementation of this educational programme in 2022, more than 3,500 activities have already been organised, involving around 80,000 young people across all the islands of the archipelago,” he said. As part of the celebrations held in Graciosa, Alonso Miguel revealed that “a rich and diverse programme was prepared in collaboration with the Santa Cruz da Graciosa Basic Education School. It included the hoisting of the Eco-Schools flag and a series of workshops on climate change, recycling, biodiversity, geodiversity, coastal ecosystems, sustainability and Biosphere Reserves.” The Regional Secretary also noted that the event was an opportunity to “launch a collection of educational videos, produced by the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, as tools to support environmental awareness and education. They cover various environmental themes and challenges, such as climate change, water management, waste and the circular economy, the Azores’ Nature Parks, and endemic and invasive species.” At the same time, he added, several activities were prepared to be carried out across all the islands of the Azores. They involved the participation of hundreds of children and young people from various schools and educational centres in the Region, with a particular focus on the launch of the game “Trivial – Climate Change in the Azores,” developed as part of the LIFE IP CLIMAZ project. The Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action also marked the occasion by delivering one hundred game sets to schools across the Region.
June 5, 2026 Regional Government marked World Environment Day on Graciosa Island The Regional Secretary for the Environment and Climate Action, Alonso Miguel, marked today World Environment Day on the island of Graciosa. He emphasised that this occasion aims to “alert and raise awareness amongst the entire community of the importance of preserving our planet and the complex environmental challenges we face, such as climate change, environmental pollution, the destruction of ecosystems and the depletion of natural resources.” The government official emphasised that “ the key theme for World Environment Day in 2026 is climate action, an issue that has been a priority for the Government.” In this regard, he added that “the date was marked on Graciosa, an island classified as a Biosphere Reserve, which has distinguished itself in various environmental fields, particularly in terms of energy transition, decarbonisation and the production of renewable energy.” Alonso Miguel noted that, “in addition to the implementation of a wide range of climate action tools and projects, such as the Regional Climate Change Programme, the LIFE IP Climaz Project and the Roadmap for Carbon Neutrality in the Azores, the Regional Government has placed a strong emphasis on environmental literacy. He pointed out that success in this challenge depends not only on appropriate public policies, but also on the involvement of society as a whole and, above all, on the individual commitment of every citizen.” The Regional Secretary also emphasised that schools are key agents in disseminating information and knowledge, playing an essential role in shaping citizens who are better prepared, more aware and committed to the future of the planet. For this reason, the Regional Secretariat organises the School Environmental Awareness Activities Programme (OASAE) every year, aimed at all regional schools. According to Alonso Miguel, “the OASAE for the 2025/2026 school year comprises a total of 65 activities designed for all levels of education, covering various thematic areas such as climate change, nature conservation, water resources and the circular economy.” “I would like to point out that, since the implementation of this educational programme in 2022, more than 3,500 activities have already been organised, involving around 80,000 young people across all the islands of the archipelago,” he said. As part of the celebrations held in Graciosa, Alonso Miguel revealed that “a rich and diverse programme was prepared in collaboration with the Santa Cruz da Graciosa Basic Education School. It included the hoisting of the Eco-Schools flag and a series of workshops on climate change, recycling, biodiversity, geodiversity, coastal ecosystems, sustainability and Biosphere Reserves.” The Regional Secretary also noted that the event was an opportunity to “launch a collection of educational videos, produced by the Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action, as tools to support environmental awareness and education. They cover various environmental themes and challenges, such as climate change, water management, waste and the circular economy, the Azores’ Nature Parks, and endemic and invasive species.” At the same time, he added, several activities were prepared to be carried out across all the islands of the Azores. They involved the participation of hundreds of children and young people from various schools and educational centres in the Region, with a particular focus on the launch of the game “Trivial – Climate Change in the Azores,” developed as part of the LIFE IP CLIMAZ project. The Regional Secretariat for the Environment and Climate Action also marked the occasion by delivering one hundred game sets to schools across the Region.
Nota de Imprensa
June 5, 2026 Applications now open for free and certified short-term training courses under "Digital Youth" programme Applications are now open for short-term training courses in digital skills as part of the “Digital Youth” programme, run by the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment – Regional Directorate for Youth. Interested young people should submit their applications by November 30 via the Youth Portal at juventude.azores.gov.pt, up to 30 days before the course starts. The Youth Portal provides information on the available training courses, which have limited vacancies, the organisations involved in promoting and running these courses, as well as the location and scheduled dates. Among the training courses available are “Digital Literacy – Introduction (Level 2),” “Cybersecurity Fundamentals (Level 5),” “Basic Computer Skills (Level 2),” and “Design – Communication and Multimedia (Level 4).” These training courses are free and aimed at young people aged between 12 and 24. Young people up to the age of 30 who are participating in social inclusion projects run by Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS) or in social reintegration programmes may also be eligible. The training courses last 25 hours and will be held in a face-to-face format. At the end of the courses, a training certificate will be issued in accordance with the National Qualifications Catalogue of the National Agency for Qualifications and Vocational Education. The “Digital Youth” programme was created by the Regional Government in 2025. The programme comprises two measures: “Measure 1” provides co-financed support for the acquisition of equipment, software and services by regional youth associations; and “Measure 2” provides funding for free and certified training in the digital field, aimed at improving young people’s digital and media literacy and proficiency. “Training young people in digital skills ensures that no one is left behind in an increasingly technological and connected society,” defended Maria João Carreiro. The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment also emphasised that “qualifying people for the digital world also means preparing them for cybersecurity, a skill for life and work, as knowledge is the best defence against digital threats.”
June 5, 2026 Applications now open for free and certified short-term training courses under "Digital Youth" programme Applications are now open for short-term training courses in digital skills as part of the “Digital Youth” programme, run by the Regional Secretariat for Youth, Housing and Employment – Regional Directorate for Youth. Interested young people should submit their applications by November 30 via the Youth Portal at juventude.azores.gov.pt, up to 30 days before the course starts. The Youth Portal provides information on the available training courses, which have limited vacancies, the organisations involved in promoting and running these courses, as well as the location and scheduled dates. Among the training courses available are “Digital Literacy – Introduction (Level 2),” “Cybersecurity Fundamentals (Level 5),” “Basic Computer Skills (Level 2),” and “Design – Communication and Multimedia (Level 4).” These training courses are free and aimed at young people aged between 12 and 24. Young people up to the age of 30 who are participating in social inclusion projects run by Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS) or in social reintegration programmes may also be eligible. The training courses last 25 hours and will be held in a face-to-face format. At the end of the courses, a training certificate will be issued in accordance with the National Qualifications Catalogue of the National Agency for Qualifications and Vocational Education. The “Digital Youth” programme was created by the Regional Government in 2025. The programme comprises two measures: “Measure 1” provides co-financed support for the acquisition of equipment, software and services by regional youth associations; and “Measure 2” provides funding for free and certified training in the digital field, aimed at improving young people’s digital and media literacy and proficiency. “Training young people in digital skills ensures that no one is left behind in an increasingly technological and connected society,” defended Maria João Carreiro. The Regional Secretary for Youth, Housing and Employment also emphasised that “qualifying people for the digital world also means preparing them for cybersecurity, a skill for life and work, as knowledge is the best defence against digital threats.”
Nota de Imprensa
June 3, 2026 Press release Following the statement issued today by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Angra do Heroísmo (CCIAH), the Regional Inspectorate of Economic Activities (IRAE) considers it necessary, for the sake of truth and public trust, to provide the following clarifications: 1. IRAE reiterates that its actions are strictly bound by the principles of professionalism, proportionality and good faith, ensuring that all inspection activities are conducted with technical rigour, impartiality and absolute respect for economic operators. Inspection activities are carried out in accordance with the legal framework applicable to economic activities in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, namely the Regional Implementing Decree no. 20/2024/A of November 18, which defines the Inspectorate’s powers in matters of economic supervision, food safety and consumer protection. 2. IRAE inspectors carry out their duties with balance, courtesy and strict compliance with legal standards, ensuring that every intervention safeguards public health and food safety, promotes fair competition, respects the dignity of business owners and workers, and minimises disruption to the normal operation of establishments. Therefore, IRAE rejects any accusation of inappropriate or disproportionate behaviour that falls short of the standards of conduct required of its professionals. 3. Regarding the incident reported on the island of São Jorge, it is important to make it absolutely clear that no IRAE inspector was present during the inspection action in question, and the Inspectorate did not order the closure of the establishment concerned. The suspension of operations was not the result of any action taken by IRAE, so it is incorrect to associate this Inspectorate with the events reported. 4. IRAE maintains an institutional dialogue, based on cooperation and transparency, with the Azorean business community, reiterating its full willingness to provide clarification, promote information campaigns and enhance the predictability of inspection procedures. 5. This Inspectorate will continue to carry out its duties with rigour, impartiality and a sense of public service, ensuring consumer protection, economic compliance, food safety and confidence in the markets, whilst rejecting interpretations that do not correspond to the factual reality or the legal framework governing its activities.
June 3, 2026 Press release Following the statement issued today by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Angra do Heroísmo (CCIAH), the Regional Inspectorate of Economic Activities (IRAE) considers it necessary, for the sake of truth and public trust, to provide the following clarifications: 1. IRAE reiterates that its actions are strictly bound by the principles of professionalism, proportionality and good faith, ensuring that all inspection activities are conducted with technical rigour, impartiality and absolute respect for economic operators. Inspection activities are carried out in accordance with the legal framework applicable to economic activities in the Autonomous Region of the Azores, namely the Regional Implementing Decree no. 20/2024/A of November 18, which defines the Inspectorate’s powers in matters of economic supervision, food safety and consumer protection. 2. IRAE inspectors carry out their duties with balance, courtesy and strict compliance with legal standards, ensuring that every intervention safeguards public health and food safety, promotes fair competition, respects the dignity of business owners and workers, and minimises disruption to the normal operation of establishments. Therefore, IRAE rejects any accusation of inappropriate or disproportionate behaviour that falls short of the standards of conduct required of its professionals. 3. Regarding the incident reported on the island of São Jorge, it is important to make it absolutely clear that no IRAE inspector was present during the inspection action in question, and the Inspectorate did not order the closure of the establishment concerned. The suspension of operations was not the result of any action taken by IRAE, so it is incorrect to associate this Inspectorate with the events reported. 4. IRAE maintains an institutional dialogue, based on cooperation and transparency, with the Azorean business community, reiterating its full willingness to provide clarification, promote information campaigns and enhance the predictability of inspection procedures. 5. This Inspectorate will continue to carry out its duties with rigour, impartiality and a sense of public service, ensuring consumer protection, economic compliance, food safety and confidence in the markets, whilst rejecting interpretations that do not correspond to the factual reality or the legal framework governing its activities.
Nota de Imprensa
June 3, 2026 Press release In light of the statements made public following the editorial published in the "Diário Insular" newspaper on May 30, and to provide rigorous and transparent evidence of the correct framework for the actions taken by the civil protection entities during the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island, the Regional Government of the Azores, through the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, considers it essential to provide the following factual clarifications: 1. First and foremost, it is important to clarify that, throughout the entire period of the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island, the scientific information provided by CIVISA – Centre for Information and Seismovolcanic Surveillance of the Azores, the competent authority in this matter, has never pointed to a scenario of imminent eruption. Specifically, none of the volcanic systems on Terceira Island has reached the V4 alert level (pre-eruption), as demonstrated by the record of alert level changes, which is presented below: Summary of Alert Levels Santa Bárbara Volcano Terceira Western Fissure Volcanic System July 30, 2022 - Raised to V2 June 26, 2024 - Raised to V1 June 26, 2024 - Raised to V3 October 3, 2025 - Raised to V2 December 4, 2024 - Lowered to V2 November 24, 2025 - Raised to V3 November 5, 2025 - Raised to V3 February 4, 2026 - Lowered to V2 February 4, 2026 - Lowered to V2 2. It is important to note that the editorial published by "Diário Insular" on Tuesday, June 2, acknowledges that the experts it consulted did not indicate an imminent eruption, and even admitted the existence of precursor signs that would make it possible to anticipate a potential event and activate measures to protect the population. This context contrasts with the initial editorial published on May 30, which suggested an imminent risk and scenarios with a high probability of loss of life. It stated that “an area (...) remained at risk of being affected by lava flows throughout that time” and that “official bodies with civil protection responsibilities estimated the probability of fatalities in such an event and pointed to alarming figures.” 3. Similarly, it is important to clarify that the Regional Government of the Azores has not produced, nor is it aware of the existence of, any official studies or assessments estimating the occurrence of fatalities in the scenarios considered during the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island. No documents were drawn up, within the scope of the activities of the regional authorities responsible for civil protection, that pointed to “alarming figures” for deaths or to projections of that sort. 4. It should also be noted that all geological risk mapping for the Autonomous Region of the Azores is public and freely accessible, and is available for consultation on the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service website at (https://www.prociv.azores.gov.pt/operacoes/documentos/) to any citizen, organisation or media outlet. This information is produced and disseminated with the specific aim of raising awareness of natural hazards and supporting the population's preparedness and safety. 5. Regarding the Raminho road, it is also important to clarify that its closure was a direct consequence of the earthquake that occurred on January 14, 2024, based on objective and duly assessed structural safety reasons. This was a technical decision, justified and absolutely in line with the duty to protect human life. 6. Consequently, measures were adopted from the outset to mitigate the impacts of this decision, notably through the upgrading of an alternative route. More importantly, a procedure was established to ensure that the section remained partially clear, so that it could be quickly reopened to traffic in the event of an emergency and to ensure the evacuation of the population whenever necessary. This was a coordinated process between the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, the Regional Directorate for Public Works, and the Angra do Heroísmo Municipal Council. 7. At the same time, a population evacuation plan, an innovative tool in the regional context, was developed and put into operation. This plan provides for its activation via a text messaging system. In addition, it sets out the responsibilities of all the bodies involved clearly and immediately, ensuring a coordinated, rapid and effective response should the need arise. This work was not merely theoretical: it was tested in the field through multiple drills. 8. In this context, we highlight the TOURO24 drill, held in June 2024, designed to test the response capacity of the Regional Civil Protection System in the face of complex scenarios of a seismic-volcanic event. As part of its preparation, various operational scenarios were developed, including scenarios involving lava flows associated with the fissure zone on Terceira Island, with projections for different areas of the territory and, consequently, the need to activate population evacuation procedures. This work was complemented by specific population evacuation drills, namely BASALTO 24.4, held in October 2024 in the parish of Cinco Ribeiras, and BASALTO 25.3, held in September 2025 in the parish of Biscoitos. 9. It is also important to highlight the ongoing outreach work with the public, involving several meetings and public information sessions, particularly in the parishes located in the vicinity of the Santa Bárbara Volcano, ensuring that citizens have access to clear and appropriate information proportional to the actual risk. Communication has always been guided by criteria of rigour and responsibility, avoiding unjustified alarmism. 10. In this context, the Regional Government categorically rejects any suggestion of withholding information. It is reiterated that all actions taken were based on technical and scientific information validated by the competent authorities. They were conducted with full institutional transparency and a constant concern to keep the public adequately informed about developments of the situation. 11. The Regional Government fully respects freedom of the press and recognises the essential role of public scrutiny in a democratic society. Such scrutiny is, however, particularly relevant when it is based on factual information that is technically sound and properly put into context. 12. The actions of the Regional Government and its departments have, at every stage, been guided by responsibility, technical expertise, rigorous planning and transparency. The management of the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island has been conducted based on the best scientific information available at any given time, through ongoing monitoring, planning, operational preparedness and communication with the public. 13. The facts demonstrate that contingency plans, evacuation mechanisms, operational drills, decision-support mapping and regular public awareness campaigns have been developed, always with the primary goal of protecting human lives and safeguarding the safety of the population. These initiatives have, in fact, been widely disseminated throughout the entire process, both by the Regional Government and local authorities, many of them covered and reported on by the media themselves. As such, their existence, content and implementation are a matter of public record, widely known and easily verifiable.
June 3, 2026 Press release In light of the statements made public following the editorial published in the "Diário Insular" newspaper on May 30, and to provide rigorous and transparent evidence of the correct framework for the actions taken by the civil protection entities during the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island, the Regional Government of the Azores, through the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, considers it essential to provide the following factual clarifications: 1. First and foremost, it is important to clarify that, throughout the entire period of the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island, the scientific information provided by CIVISA – Centre for Information and Seismovolcanic Surveillance of the Azores, the competent authority in this matter, has never pointed to a scenario of imminent eruption. Specifically, none of the volcanic systems on Terceira Island has reached the V4 alert level (pre-eruption), as demonstrated by the record of alert level changes, which is presented below: Summary of Alert Levels Santa Bárbara Volcano Terceira Western Fissure Volcanic System July 30, 2022 - Raised to V2 June 26, 2024 - Raised to V1 June 26, 2024 - Raised to V3 October 3, 2025 - Raised to V2 December 4, 2024 - Lowered to V2 November 24, 2025 - Raised to V3 November 5, 2025 - Raised to V3 February 4, 2026 - Lowered to V2 February 4, 2026 - Lowered to V2 2. It is important to note that the editorial published by "Diário Insular" on Tuesday, June 2, acknowledges that the experts it consulted did not indicate an imminent eruption, and even admitted the existence of precursor signs that would make it possible to anticipate a potential event and activate measures to protect the population. This context contrasts with the initial editorial published on May 30, which suggested an imminent risk and scenarios with a high probability of loss of life. It stated that “an area (...) remained at risk of being affected by lava flows throughout that time” and that “official bodies with civil protection responsibilities estimated the probability of fatalities in such an event and pointed to alarming figures.” 3. Similarly, it is important to clarify that the Regional Government of the Azores has not produced, nor is it aware of the existence of, any official studies or assessments estimating the occurrence of fatalities in the scenarios considered during the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island. No documents were drawn up, within the scope of the activities of the regional authorities responsible for civil protection, that pointed to “alarming figures” for deaths or to projections of that sort. 4. It should also be noted that all geological risk mapping for the Autonomous Region of the Azores is public and freely accessible, and is available for consultation on the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service website at (https://www.prociv.azores.gov.pt/operacoes/documentos/) to any citizen, organisation or media outlet. This information is produced and disseminated with the specific aim of raising awareness of natural hazards and supporting the population's preparedness and safety. 5. Regarding the Raminho road, it is also important to clarify that its closure was a direct consequence of the earthquake that occurred on January 14, 2024, based on objective and duly assessed structural safety reasons. This was a technical decision, justified and absolutely in line with the duty to protect human life. 6. Consequently, measures were adopted from the outset to mitigate the impacts of this decision, notably through the upgrading of an alternative route. More importantly, a procedure was established to ensure that the section remained partially clear, so that it could be quickly reopened to traffic in the event of an emergency and to ensure the evacuation of the population whenever necessary. This was a coordinated process between the Azores Regional Civil Protection and Fire Service, the Regional Directorate for Public Works, and the Angra do Heroísmo Municipal Council. 7. At the same time, a population evacuation plan, an innovative tool in the regional context, was developed and put into operation. This plan provides for its activation via a text messaging system. In addition, it sets out the responsibilities of all the bodies involved clearly and immediately, ensuring a coordinated, rapid and effective response should the need arise. This work was not merely theoretical: it was tested in the field through multiple drills. 8. In this context, we highlight the TOURO24 drill, held in June 2024, designed to test the response capacity of the Regional Civil Protection System in the face of complex scenarios of a seismic-volcanic event. As part of its preparation, various operational scenarios were developed, including scenarios involving lava flows associated with the fissure zone on Terceira Island, with projections for different areas of the territory and, consequently, the need to activate population evacuation procedures. This work was complemented by specific population evacuation drills, namely BASALTO 24.4, held in October 2024 in the parish of Cinco Ribeiras, and BASALTO 25.3, held in September 2025 in the parish of Biscoitos. 9. It is also important to highlight the ongoing outreach work with the public, involving several meetings and public information sessions, particularly in the parishes located in the vicinity of the Santa Bárbara Volcano, ensuring that citizens have access to clear and appropriate information proportional to the actual risk. Communication has always been guided by criteria of rigour and responsibility, avoiding unjustified alarmism. 10. In this context, the Regional Government categorically rejects any suggestion of withholding information. It is reiterated that all actions taken were based on technical and scientific information validated by the competent authorities. They were conducted with full institutional transparency and a constant concern to keep the public adequately informed about developments of the situation. 11. The Regional Government fully respects freedom of the press and recognises the essential role of public scrutiny in a democratic society. Such scrutiny is, however, particularly relevant when it is based on factual information that is technically sound and properly put into context. 12. The actions of the Regional Government and its departments have, at every stage, been guided by responsibility, technical expertise, rigorous planning and transparency. The management of the seismic-volcanic crisis on Terceira Island has been conducted based on the best scientific information available at any given time, through ongoing monitoring, planning, operational preparedness and communication with the public. 13. The facts demonstrate that contingency plans, evacuation mechanisms, operational drills, decision-support mapping and regular public awareness campaigns have been developed, always with the primary goal of protecting human lives and safeguarding the safety of the population. These initiatives have, in fact, been widely disseminated throughout the entire process, both by the Regional Government and local authorities, many of them covered and reported on by the media themselves. As such, their existence, content and implementation are a matter of public record, widely known and easily verifiable.
