Bacolod city: The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is pushing for a unified Visayas towards disaster preparedness and climate resilience at the opening of the Handa Pilipinas-Visayas Leg at SMX Convention Center here on Monday. The three-day exposition, themed ‘Padayon Visayas: Science, Technology and Innovation for Resilient, United, and Sustainable Visayas,’ is part of the national campaign of the DOST to strengthen public awareness, promote collaboration, and build resilient and sustainable communities across the country.
According to Philippines News Agency, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. emphasized the event’s theme, which captures the collective spirit of strength and perseverance that defines the Visayan people. He noted their steadfastness in facing challenges and their forward-looking approach in using science and technology to create a safer future. Recent natural events, such as the magnitude 6.9 earthquake in Cebu and ongoing volcanic activity of Mt. Kanlaon, highlight the region’s vulnerability to natural hazards. Additionally, Roxas City in Capiz has been under a state of calamity due to recent flooding.
Solidum stated that through Handa Pilipinas, the DOST aims to nurture a mindset of preparedness that transforms knowledge into action and resilience. He highlighted three major points for a ‘unified Visayas’: learning from past disasters, building a science-driven and people-centered region, and strengthening partnerships for a unified future.
DOST-Negros Island Region Director Rowen Gelonga reiterated the need for science-based, technology-driven solutions to address the region’s vulnerability to natural hazards. The event also saw the signing of a memorandum of understanding on science-based disaster resilience and sustainable governance between DOST and the Department of the Interior and Local Government.
Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya signed an agreement to establish a community-based flood early warning device system with DOST-Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration. Solidum handed over the Handa Pilipinas guidebook, exhibit modules, and water compendium to Gasataya and Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson. The DOST-NIR also launched Project Signal to improve disaster preparedness in communities.
Governor Lacson expressed gratitude for the DOST’s support, particularly for providing intensity meters that enhance the capacity to monitor seismic activity and inform decision-making. Handa Pilipinas-Visayas features talks from experts and showcases best practices in disaster risk reduction and management from various LGUs and national government agencies.
