NAVAL, Biliran — The municipal government here, in partnership with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Office, inaugurated two key facilities on December 2, 2025, aimed at strengthening disaster response and public health services in the municipality.
The launch of the Naval Emergency Operations Center (NEOC) and the Water Quality Testing Facility was led by Mayor Gretchen Stephanie Espina and DOST Regional Director John Glenn Ocaña, and Provincial Director Dr. Romeo Dignos, and other regional officials.
Mayor Espina highlighted that the NEOC will serve as the municipality’s command hub during disasters, coordinating emergency responses, managing information flow, and enabling faster, more organized decision-making.
Meanwhile, the Water Quality Testing Facility will allow local authorities to monitor and safeguard drinking water, ensuring compliance with health standards and protecting residents from waterborne illnesses.
The initiative reflects the ongoing collaboration between the LGU and DOST to build a safer and more resilient community.
During the event, a usufruct agreement for the new Biliran Provincial Science and Technology Office was also signed between the provincial government of Biliran, represented by Board Member Brigido Caneja III, and DOST-8.
(ROEL T. AMAZONA)
