Summit Hotel, Tacloban City
November 8, 2023

“The government remains committed to advancing our country’s disaster resilience,” declared President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. as he led the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) launching of the Visayas Leg of HANDA Pilipinas, being held at the Summit Hotel, Tacloban City on the sidelines of the commemoration of the 10th Anniversary of Typhoon Yolanda.

In his message, the President lauded the DOST for its pivotal role in developing cutting-edge technologies aimed at disaster risk prevention, mitigation, preparedness, response and recovery.

“I am confident that the technologies featured in this event such as the mobile command post and triaging trailer tent, collapsible toilet bowl, upgraded emergency disinfection system, fire blanket, and unsinkable portaboat and water ambulance, among others—will be of great help during relief and rescue operations,” he asserted.

Furthermore, the Chief Executive emphasized that these innovative technologies would be incredibly beneficial to the local government units (LGUs), especially in disaster response and recovery.

“May ready market ang lahat ng mga produktong ito para sa ating mga LGU kaya’t kailangan ay ipagpatuloy natin ang pag-develop, hindi na ‘yung teknolohiya, kung hindi ang pagpababa ng presyo ng ating mga produkto at pagparami, para maging available sa lahat ng ating mga LGU para naman magamit pangtulong sa tao kapag may pangangailangan,” he said.

He also urged the private sector to support these new technologies to expedite their widespread adoption and commercialization.

“Let us also promote public awareness so that every citizen becomes more proactive, better-informed and better-equipped in times of an emergency. Let us ensure that science and innovation continues to guide us in our endeavors,” he urged.

“Sa Bagong Pilipinas na ating isinusulong, ang bawat Pilipino ay laging handa—sa pagharap sa mga hamon ng buhay at sa pagtulong sa iba pang nangangailangan,” he concluded.

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