GENERAL SANTOS CITY – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Soccsksargen will host the 2024 “HANDA Pilipinas—Mindanao Leg,” the largest event in technology and innovation for disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM).
During the recent “Kapihan sa PIA 12” at SM City General Santos, DOST Regional Director Sammy P. Malawan announced that the Soccsksargen region will lead this year’s event, scheduled for October 2-4, at the KCC Convention and Events Center here.
DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. will be the keynote speaker and resource person on “Climate and Disaster Resilience in Mindanao” on the opening day of the event.
“Through Handa Pilipinas, we are bridging the gap between science and the community, showing that science, technology, and innovation are not just for academia or laboratories but have a direct impact on our daily lives,” Malawan emphasized.
Handa Pilipinas, which carries the theme, “Innovate, Empower, and Collaborate: Building Disaster-Resilient Mindanao,” is expected to draw key stakeholders, including local government leaders and DRRM officers from across Mindanao.
DOST will also celebrate the 2024 Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) at the Veranza Atrium, back-to-back with Handa Pilipinas.
The two events feature a variety of activities, including interactive exhibits, techno-showcases, and forums designed to empower communities in disaster preparedness and resilience.
“Through these activities, we are actively integrating STI into DRRM, equipping communities with knowledge and tools that can help them mitigate the impacts of disasters,” Malawan said, pointing out the importance of these gatherings, particularly in a disaster-prone country like the Philippines.
He also said the events reflect DOST’s commitment to making science work for the people, demonstrating how scientific advancements can protect lives and livelihoods while enhancing community resilience.
“On the first day of Handa Pilipinas, we will be hosting a press conference with national leaders and Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) experts,” he said.
Malawan conveyed that this event will provide a platform for the media to gain insights into the latest trends and developments in DRRM, inviting them to join the occasion to stay informed and engage with experts.
The highlights of the upcoming event, the official said, are as follows:
- Green Resilience: Harnessing Bamboo for DRRM and Sustainable Economic Growth
- Strategic Innovations for Strengthening Disaster Resilience in Mindanao: Harnessing Defense Resources for Community Empowerment
- Empowering Local Governments for Effective Disaster Preparedness: Innovation and Best Practices
- Human-Centered Innovations in Disaster Response: Ensuring Inclusive and Effective Relief Operations
- Building Back Better: Innovative Approaches to Disaster Rehabilitation and Recovery in Mindanao
- Science and Technology at the Forefront: Mitigating Disaster Risk in Mindanao through Innovations
- Lectures on Hazards and Earthquakes by DOST PHIVOLCS
- Lectures on Hydro-Meteorological Hazards
- MAGHANDA: Communicating Hazards, Risks, and Early Warnings
- GeoRiskPH: Innovations for Resilience
There will also be a signing of a memorandum of agreement between DOST and the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation, and Unity for the “empowerment of former combatants and families in the six acknowledged MILF camps in Mindanao through the provision of science and technology interventions.”
Malawan highlighted that Handa Pilipinas is a crucial tool that not only saves lives but also safeguards livelihoods and enhances the resilience of local communities.
“Itong HANDA Pilipinas, eh napakahalaga na matutuhan natin ‘yung disaster preparedness and mitigating actions sa mga hazards natin. So with this, we can share insights, ano ba ang pwede nating gawing to mitigate these geohazards, so napakahalaga, kaya nga sabi namin we have to host, ‘yung dito sa Mindanao,” he added.
(HANDA Pilipinas is very important for us to learn disaster preparedness and mitigating actions for the hazards we face. Through this, we can share insights on what we can do to mitigate these geohazards. That’s why it’s crucial that we need to host it here in Mindanao.) (HJPF – PIA SarGen)