USTP teacher develops 'geolocator' for distressed fishermen

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY–Following the success of initial tests, the geolocation technology developed by a faculty of the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) is seen to help local fishermen obtain help during distress situations in the open sea.

The geolocator technology was developed by Engr. Miriam Mejias, a member of the USTP faculty in Computer Engineering department. It is an offshoot of Mejias' thesis for her Master’s degree in Computer Applications at the Mindanao State University – Iligan Institute of Technology.

Using a computer application, the "geolocator" uses a “sub-1 GHz” network, a type of radio frequency band known for its high performance, long range wireless signal, and low power consumption.

The technology was first tested by a group of fishermen in Barangay Agusan here, who agreed to participate in a study to determine its effectiveness.

Mejias said the participating fishermen were given geolocators using android smartphones, where they can transmit signals and their locations in open waters.

Mejias said the technology is useful for fisherfolk during emergencies, citing in her study the tragedy involving several fishermen in General Santos City who got lost at sea when tropical storm “Pablo” hit parts of Mindanao in 2012.

"Through this study I hope to help the fishermen who encounter distress situations at sea, so that they can easily be tracked down by rescuers and come home safe and alive," she said in the vernacular.

Kenneth Piloton, barangay administrator of Agusan village, said the fishermen in the area found the technology useful. He hopes that the government can mass-produce the device and give to the fisherfolk for free. (PNA)