To help strengthen the country’s resilience from disasters, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is mounting the first disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) technology expo in Mindanao from October 6 to 4 at The Atrium, Limketkai Mall in Cagayan de Oro. This is the DOST’s Mindanao leg of “HANDA Pilipinas” expo. The Luzon leg was held in July in Pasay City, while the Visayas leg would be held in November. In a televised Bangon Pilipinas briefing on Thursday, DOST 10 research science specialist Nova Belle Calotes said HANDA Pilipinas aims to disseminate knowledge and raise awareness on DRRM technologies developed by the DOST, as well as facilitate easier adoption of DOST-supported innovations. “This will be the first DRRM technology expo in Mindanao and will feature various exhibits showcasing disaster prevention, preparedness, response, and recovery. Exhibits will come from the DOST and state universities and colleges, science foundations, and government and private entities,” she said. Among the confirmed exhibitors are Wi Digitech which will showcase an emergency communication system and OBX Solutions, which will showcase an offline mobile app that will help citizens seek help or report situations to response teams. A hydro sensor for measuring river’s water level, speed and volume is also among the exhibits. Primary targets of the expo are the mayors, DRRM officers, students and teachers, and businessmen. The general public is encouraged to visit the expo at The Atrium as this is open to everyone, free of charge. Forums will also be held at the Luxe Hotel. These are also free, but those who would like to go should register through a pre-registration link on the DOST Region 10’s Facebook page. Walk-ins are also welcome. Calotes said local government units and organizations are encouraged to send just one representative so more participants can be accommodated. Among the topics to be discussed in the forums are risk communication for media and DRR officers; flood warning systems on Mindanao river basins; GeoRiskPH platform. Meanwhile, she said technology pitching and workshops will also be conducted in partnership with the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). Further, the exhibit will also highlight bamboo and its role in climate change adaptation, she said
Source: Philippines News Agency
