The Ministry of Science and Technology’s Advanced Science & Technology Division (MOST-ASTD) engaged in a series of benchmarking activities and technical meetings with several key institutions from August 19 to 22, 2024. The team visited Batangas State University (BATSTATEU), DOST IV-A, PAGASA, PHIVOLCS, and DOST-ASTI, aiming to acquire knowledge for enhancing the ministry’s disaster risk reduction and management services.

 

The benchmarking activity began at BATSTATEU, home to the Response Command Center for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management for Region IV-A. The team received a comprehensive tour of the facility, which showcased the advanced technologies utilized in their operations. The university also presented its master’s program in Disaster Risk Management (DRM), offering specialized training and knowledge in the field.

 

The following day, the team visited the DOST IV-A office, where they were introduced to the platforms and technologies used for monitoring hydrometeorological data. Discussions highlighted various ICT tools employed for this purpose.

 

On the third day, the team visited PAGASA and PHIVOLCS. At PAGASA, discussions focused on the challenges associated with operating early warning stations, and the team requested technical assistance to address these issues. Similarly, at PHIVOLCS, the team discussed the difficulties in maintaining tsunami alert stations and sought expert guidance.

 

The final stop was DOST-ASTI, where the team was introduced to various technologies that could be adopted to improve disaster preparedness in the region. DOST-ASTI provided insights into how these tools could be integrated into existing disaster management strategies.

 

This series of visits and technical meetings equipped the Ministry of Science and Technology personnel with valuable knowledge and practical insights into disaster risk reduction and management.

 

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