The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) pushed for a unified Visayas towards disaster preparedness and climate resilience at the opening of the Handa Pilipinas-Visayas Leg at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City on Monday, Oct. 27.
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.
In his keynote speech, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said the event’s theme captures the collective spirit of strength and perseverance that defines the Visayan people.
“They are steadfast in the face of challenges, and forward-looking in harnessing science and technology to build a better, safer tomorrow,” he said.
On Sept. 30, Cebu was rocked by a magnitude 6.9 earthquake that was felt across the Visayas.
Negros Island continues to experience volcanic activity of Mt. Kanlaon, which is currently at Alert Level 2.
Only last week, Roxas City in Capiz was placed under a state of calamity due to massive flooding.
Solidum said that through Handa Pilipinas, the DOST is not just showcasing technologies, but “nurturing a mindset and culture of preparedness that turns knowledge into action, and action into resilience.”
“We are learning from the past, applying science for the people, and working hand in hand for a sustainable future,” he said.
The DOST chief highlighted three major points as advocated for a “unified Visayas,” where “no one is left behind, urban or rural, coastal or upland, big city or small barangay.”
”As we look ahead, let us remember: turning disasters into lessons for resilience, building a science-driven and people-centered Visayas, and strengthening partnerships for a unified future,” he added.
DOST-Negros Island Region Director Rowen Gelonga said the recent earthquakes, flooding, and the ongoing activity of Kanlaon Volcano are reminders of the continuing vulnerability of Visayas to natural hazards.
“These events underscore the emergency of developing science-based, technology-driven, and community-centered solutions,” he said.
As part of the opening activity, officials of the DOST and the Department of the Interior and Local Government signed a memorandum of understanding on science-based disaster resilience and sustainable governance.
Solidum officially 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 the Project Signal, a project aimed at improving disaster preparedness in communities.
In his message, Lacson thanked the DOST for its continued partnership and support to Negros Occidental, particularly through the provision of intensity meters to the provincial government and other local government units (LGUs).
“These instruments greatly enhance our capacity to monitor seismic activity and provide timely data that help inform decision-making and safeguard our communities,” he said.
Aside from featuring talks from experts, Handa Pilipinas-Visayas is also showcasing the best practices and strategies in disaster risk reduction and management from various LGUs and national government agencies.*