DOST: Science and tech tools should be part of LGU planning, decisions

MANILA — Local government units should integrate science and technology tools like GeoRisk Philippines and Hazard Hunter PH in their regular planning and decisions, the Department of Science and Technology said on Thursday.

During state television PTV’s “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon”, DOST Region 8 Director John Glenn Ocana said one of the challenges of making the most of the tools is  “moving from available technology to actually using the technology.

He said combining the use of hazard maps, risk information, forecasts, early warning systems and local knowledge would give LGUs and communities better bases for decision-making.

“This can help them prepare, allocate resources, take action earlier,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Office of Civil Defense said it is important to improve the country’s disaster resilience infrastructure, including flood control structures, drainage systems, and bridges.

OCD spokesperson Vicente Gregorio Tomas said that can be done through enforcing building standards and conducting regular structural inspections.

He also recommended using the risk and hazard maps to check that infrastructure projects are appropriate for where they will be built.

Tomas also stressed the importance of anticipating disaster risks due to the effects of climate change and other factors.