MANILA – The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Wednesday inked a deal for a project called "Maghanda," which seeks to boost information drive and provide better disaster risk warnings.
"It aims to capacitate LGUs (local government units), disaster risk reduction (DRR) offices, local information officers and DRR first responders, including uniformed personnel such as PNP, BFP, etc. in understanding response actions," said Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) administrator Vicente Malano.
He added that the project seeks to provide a clearer understanding of warnings from frontline science agencies PAGASA and the Philippine Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to facilitate better response among LGUs and the general public.
"The key to appropriate preparedness and response would be clear understanding of the hazards and potential impacts of an area, clear warning and alert messages," said Phivolcs director Renato Solidum Jr.
Solidum pointed out that scientists and technical experts often use jargons, which make the public underinformed.
Through "Maghanda," local officials and disaster managers will be provided with a clearer understanding of warning messages on natural hazards (earthquakes, storm surges, typhoons, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions, among others) to better respond to disasters and relay information to the public.
The project targets over 7,500 participants from the seminar workshops in all 17 regions, capacitating local chief executives, disaster managers, and first responders on the latest disaster information and early warnings for appropriate actions.
The project, which costs over PHP27 million, will provide a learning management system that LGUs can access, free of charge, as well as the vital information they would need to be prepared.
"Maghanda" will also produce public service announcements on disaster warning information to be broadcast through various platforms and media networks.
Through the help of the DILG, the project will develop an updated disaster risk reduction and management contingency plan with the new normal protocols in consideration. (PNA)
