Davao del Sur Gets Geo-Ready: DOST - PHIVOLCS Conducts Orientation on the Use of GeoRiskPH Platforms for the Province of Davao del Sur
July 15, 2024
by: TYCalibat

In an effort to enhance disaster preparedness and risk assessment, the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, in partnership with DOST Region XI, conducted a virtual orientation on the use of GeoRiskPH platforms for Davao del Sur province held on 15th of July, 2024. A total of twenty-nine participants attended the training, composed of Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officers (MDRRMOs), LIGA officers, staff from the Municipal Planning and Development Office (MPDO), Municipal Mayor's Office (MMO), and Municipal Budget Office (MBO) of LGU Bansalan - Davao del Sur. This introductory course is designed for local government units (LGUs) and national government agencies (NGAs) to effectively understand and use GeoRiskPH platforms which serve as tools for more efficient hazards and risk assessment, and analysis to support data-informed planning and decision-making. The program began with a warm welcome from the Municipal Mayor of Bansalan, Davao del Sur, Mr. Edwin G. Reyes. He highlighted the importance of training in building smart and sustainable communities. He also encouraged everyone to actively engage and share insights, aiming to turn the knowledge gained into actions that make Bansalan sustainable and resilient. The training session commenced with an introduction to the GeoRisk Philippines Initiative, followed by a lecture on Earthquake and Volcanic Hazards. The participants were then introduced to the fundamental principles of disaster preparedness through the 3Rs framework. Furthermore, the training introduced the two GeoRiskPH platforms, such as HazardHunterPH and GeoAnalyticsPH, in which participants were guided through their features and functionalities with hands-on activities to reinforce the learning. The program continued with a Q&A segment and a discussion on ways forward where selected participants shared their insights and impressions of the training. Mr. Hadson T. Malik, the barangay captain of Managa, Bansalan, Davao del Sur, expressed his gratitude for the training, emphasizing its importance in raising awareness of natural hazards and conducting assessments. He noted that the knowledge gained from the training would be a valuable asset, empowering their barangay to enhance safety and preparedness for the future. Ms. Cecile M. Besin, LDRRM Officer of Bansalan, Davao del Sur also shared her insights emphasizing the importance of the training in conducting hazard assessments. The training concluded with a message from Ms. Ruby Felicia M. Manongdo, Senior Science Research Specialist at DOST XI—PSTO Davao del Sur. She expressed her gratitude to the organizers and participants for their active engagement and to the facilitators for their expertise and dedication. She also emphasized the importance of the knowledge gained in mitigating natural hazards and the significance of information and education campaigns in promoting data-informed decision-making for hazard and risk assessments. The orientation on the use of GeoRiskPH platforms was a significant step towards strengthening Davao del Sur's disaster risk management capabilities. Through lectures and demonstrations, participants acquired valuable skills and knowledge, empowering them to utilize the platforms effectively. This initiative exemplifies the collaborative efforts needed to build a safer and more resilient future for all.