The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is urging local government units (LGUs) to adopt science-based solutions to build resilient, smarter, and safer communities, which will be showcased during the Handa Pilipinas-Visayas Leg at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City, from Oct. 27 to 29.
In a press launch at the Negros Residences Oct. 21, DOST-Negros Island Region director Rowen Gelonga said that through Handa Pilipinas, DOST and its partner-agencies aim to build strong disaster resiliency, awareness, and capability among all Filipinos.
“We would like to have that kind of disaster resiliency that is anchored on the use of science, technology, and innovation (STI). Our goal is that when we address the problems that we encounter, we should use technology-based solutions,” he added.
Negros Occidental DOST OIC-provincial director Glady Reyes said that because not all LGUs have the same exposure to hazards, they can choose which technologies are fit for their needs.
“Handa Pilipinas will feature technologies that can be adopted by the LGUs. They can customize, they can identify the technologies that they can adopt based on the hazards in their areas,” she added.
Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office head Irene Bel Ploteña said the event is an opportunity for the LGUs to highlight prevention and mitigation in their disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) plans.
“I hope this would inspire them to think of technologies that they can apply in their LGUs,” she added.
Themed “Padayon Visayas: STI for Resilient, United, and Sustainable Visayas”, Handa Pilipinas-Visayas opening program will be keynoted by DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr.
The event will also showcase the best practices and strategies in DRRM from various LGUs and national government agencies.
Technological innovations involving nutrition solutions, smart warning systems, communication technologies, and startup-driven solutions for disaster response will be presented.
There will be disaster preparedness exhibits and a conference that will gather government leaders, scientists, innovators, educators, students, and media practitioners.
Primary and high school students will participate in disaster preparedness activities through the Brains and Breakthroughs Quiz Bowl.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration and the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology will spearhead the #Maghanda sessions, featuring in-depth lectures on earthquakes, volcanic hazards, tsunamis, and hydro-meteorological hazards.
On Oct. 29, the Handa Pilipinas-Visayas will culminate with the awarding of exhibitors and partners, and a recap of provincial Handa expositions. | PNA
