by Crisdeniele H. Clemente 

The Department of Science and Technology Region I in coordination  with the DOST – Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), holds a forum dubbed “Alerto! Rehiyon Uno: Forum on Geological Hazards in Region 1,” on July 18, at the MMSU Teatro Ilocandia. It is the first of a series of fora that will cover all regions in the country.

The regional event delves on environmental hazards and provides a platform to integrate advance technologies and innovations in the implementation of disaster risk reduction plans.

The event convened governors, district representatives, regional directors, local chief executives, SUC presidents, and media representatives from three Regions: Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, and La Union.

Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang, DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations, opened the program as he urged the participants to maximize this opportunity to discuss new approaches, shared-knowledge, and ideas to mitigate the effects of geohazards through effective preparedness and suitable measures. 

Keynoting the event, Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr. DOST Secretary, presented the challenges and vision for disaster resiliency in Region I. He said collective efforts through science, technology, and innovation will make people become victors and not victims of disasters.

He also underscored the “GeoRisk Philippines” as an initiative to harness science, governance, and localization of strategies in increasing the nation`s resilience to natural hazards. ”Good disaster risk governance can be measured by lives saved, fewer people affected, and reduced economic losses,” he stressed.

In the activity`s morning session, DOST-PHIVOLCS officials presented the overview of DRRM DOST-PHIVOLCS major programs and innovations. They also discussed earthquake sources in Region 1, hazards, and their impact.

In the afternoon, discussions on tsunamis and geological risks in the Philippines were tackled, followed by an open forum spearheaded by the Philippine Information Agency.

A separate forum is scheduled for Pangasinan, at the Provincial Training Development Center in Lingayen tour, on July 19. 

Hon. Matthew M. Manotoc, Ilocos Norte Governor, expressed his support for the activity. He wished for the survey to benefit the whole province, focusing to protect marginaziled communities in vulnerable situations.

President Shirley C. Agrupis, who is currently on official travel to Japan to forge partnerships with counterpart universities, sent her warm welcome to all the participants and delegates through Dr. Nathaniel R. Alibuyog, vice president for research and extension. The MMSU president thanked Sec. Solidum for visiting the MMSU campus again. The DOST secretary was guest of honor and speaker in the MMSU’s 44th Foundation Anniversary in January. (HLY, StratCom)