TIPSLIFEHACKS

Baguio City, Philippines – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has issued a strong call to Local Government Units (LGUs) across the Philippines, emphasising that technological advancements alone are insufficient to safeguard communities against the increasing threat of natural disasters. This pivotal message was delivered by Undersecretary Solidum during the opening of the 2025 HANDA Pilipinas sa Bagong Pilipinas event, held from August 7th to 9th at the Newtown Convention Center in Baguio City, nestled within the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). The event served as a crucial platform for showcasing best practices and fostering collaboration in disaster risk reduction and management.

The HANDA Pilipinas event, themed ‘HANDA Pilipinas sa Bagong Pilipinas’ (Prepared Philippines for a New Philippines), brought together stakeholders from various sectors, including government agencies, non-governmental organisations, and private companies. The focus was on strengthening the nation's resilience to hazards like typhoons, earthquakes, floods, and landslides – all of which pose a significant and recurring challenge to the Philippines, a country situated along the Pacific Ring of Fire and within the typhoon belt.

Undersecretary Solidum's statement underscored a crucial shift in perspective. While acknowledging the vital role of technology in early warning systems, hazard mapping, and post-disaster response, he stressed that true disaster preparedness hinges on empowering local communities and fostering a culture of resilience. “Technology is a powerful tool, but it’s only as effective as the people who use it and the communities that are prepared to act,” he stated. He urged LGUs to invest in comprehensive disaster preparedness programs that include public awareness campaigns, training initiatives, and the development of community-based contingency plans.

Key elements of effective community preparedness highlighted at the event included:

• Community-Based Risk Assessments: Engaging residents in identifying local hazards and vulnerabilities.
• Early Warning System Dissemination: Ensuring that warnings reach all segments of the community, including vulnerable populations.
• Evacuation Planning & Drills: Regularly practicing evacuation procedures to ensure a swift and orderly response.
• First Aid and Emergency Response Training: Equipping community members with basic life-saving skills.
• Psychosocial Support: Providing mental health and emotional support to individuals and families affected by disasters.

The DOST’s message aligns with the national government's broader strategy of building a ‘New Philippines’ that is more resilient and adaptive to climate change and other disaster risks. The HANDA Pilipinas event provided a valuable opportunity to share knowledge, forge partnerships, and collectively strengthen the Philippines' capacity to face future challenges. The emphasis on community empowerment signals a move towards a more holistic and sustainable approach to disaster risk reduction, recognizing that the most effective defence against disasters lies within the preparedness and resilience of the Filipino people.

Moving forward, the DOST encourages LGUs to integrate these principles into their local disaster risk reduction and management plans, ensuring that technology serves as a facilitator, not a substitute, for proactive community engagement and preparedness. The future of disaster resilience in the Philippines depends on a collaborative effort, where technology and human capacity work hand in hand.