(DOST- Eastern Visayas)
TACLOBAN CITY — The provincial government of Biliran has strengthened its disaster preparedness and emergency response capability following the turnover of more than P17-million Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MoCCoV) from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Governor Rogelio Espina said the state-of-the-art vehicle will enable authorities to maintain communications and coordinate rescue and relief operations even when conventional communication systems fail during major disasters.
“We were surprised because it is no small thing to receive a vehicle worth more than P17 million that can be used during calamities, strong typhoons, and even major events to ensure that communication, instructions, and services are synchronized. This will help prevent unforeseen problems that may arise during approaching typhoons or rescue operations,” Espina said in an interview.
The governor, who personally received the vehicle during a simple ceremony on Wednesday, July 15, assured DOST that the provincial government would maximize the vehicle’s use and regularly provide feedback to help improve future versions of the technology.
“We will make full use of this vehicle. I told the Secretary that we will report to them on how it has been utilized so we can recommend any additional equipment or system upgrades that may be needed. We will provide feedback so it can be modified or improved to help even more communities,” he added.
Aside from Biliran, the municipality of Catarman in Northern Samar also received a MoCCoV unit from the DOST.
DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. said communication systems are often among the first casualties during major disasters, making it difficult for responders to coordinate rescue and relief operations.
“During major disasters, one of the most affected systems is communication. When there is no communication, an area becomes isolated. Even if we want to respond, it becomes difficult to coordinate with local governments and barangays,” Solidum said.
He explained that the MoCCoV serves as a mobile incident command center that allows emergency responders to monitor disaster situations, coordinate response efforts, and maintain communication in areas where conventional infrastructure has been damaged.
The vehicle can also be deployed during major public events to support security operations and incident management.
According to Solidum, some MoCCoV units are equipped with advanced emergency response equipment, including drones, portable rescue boats, and medical triage systems, allowing responders to provide immediate assistance in disaster-stricken communities.
Developed by the DOST, the MoCCoV is equipped with satellite communication systems, surveillance cameras, GPS tracking, and an onboard weather monitoring station linked to the agency’s HANDA hazard monitoring platform.
Biliran is among the country’s disaster-prone provinces, regularly experiencing destructive typhoons, flooding, landslides, and storm surges, making reliable emergency communication systems crucial for saving lives and ensuring timely disaster response.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
