TACLOBAN CITY-With the country’s vulnerability to natural disasters that continue to intensify over time, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) cited the importance of GeoRiskPH Integrated Platform at the weeklong celebration of the 2025 Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) in Eastern Visayas.
Launched in collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-Phivolcs), the GeoRiskPH, which includes tools like HazardHunterPH, GeoAnalyticsPH, GeoMapper and PlanSmart Ready-to-Rebuild, is designed to strengthen community resilience through science-based risk assessment.
At the opening ceremony of the 2025 RSTW in Eastern Visayas, a memorandum of agreement was signed for the regional adoption of the GeoRiskPH which encourages local government units to utilize the integrated platforms and take advantage of tools that aid in enhancing disaster preparedness through data-driven planning and decision-making, improving resource allocation through efficient utilization of funds for disaster risk reduction, stronger institutional capacity through comprehensive training on data management and analysis, and integrated efforts for sustainable development by incorporating risk reduction into local planning processes.
“This platform is more than just data, it’s about saving lives. We are building our collaboration with our local governments and communities to use this technology to prepare better, build smarter, and respond faster,” DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said.
The GeoRiskPH Integrated Platform was developed to provide accessible, accurate, and timely hazard information to local governments, planners, and even ordinary citizens.
The program is designed for various stakeholders involved in disaster risk reduction and management in the Philippines, including government agencies, private sector organizations, non-governmental organizations (NGOs), and the general public.
Anchored on the national theme, “Siyensiya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” and the regional focus “Building Smart and Sustainable Communities,” this year’s RSTW underscores the role of science, technology and innovation in addressing pressing community needs and driving inclusive development. (ACR/PIA Leyte)
