Timely and accurate information on natural hazards are essential in mitigating disasters and the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), through the Science and Technology Information Institute (STII), espouses the same dictum and produced a disaster management guide or manual called the Reference for Emergency and Disaster, more popularly known as the RED Book.
Designed to aid the local government units and disaster risk reduction managers in implementing their disaster management plans, the DOST turned over to the Regional Development Council of Western Visayas copies of the RED Book during the Special Forum on Science and Technology held on February 23, 2016 at the NEDA VI Building, Fort San Pedro, Iloilo City.
“The RED Book is a testament of the DOST’s commitment to provide vulnerable communities the science-based tools on disaster preparedness because the department strongly believes that accurate and timely information are two factors important in keeping our communities safe during times of calamities,” stated Science Secretary Mario G. Montejo during one of his briefings.
Further, Montejo stressed that the availability of cutting edge technologies in disaster management like the light detection and ranging technology or LiDAR and Project NOAH is reason enough for DOST to share these knowledge products like flood hazard maps in one compilation or guide book like the RED Book.
This resource material is a compilation of different learning materials from DOST’s Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Project NOAH. and the Disaster Risk Exposure and Assessment for Mitigation. It includes meteorological and geological hazard information, hazard assessment and protocols, hazard maps of the 18 major river systems in the country, and emergency numbers of government agencies involved in disaster preparedness.
“The RED Book becomes a disaster management tool for local government executives and disaster managers to have a well informed decision based on science,” Montejo further said.
The event was part of the Science Nation Tour Western Visayas leg that also included other activities, all geared at promoting S&T as a way of life. Other activities that coincided with the Science Nation Tour in Western Visayas are the following: Tek-Tienda Product Fair, a showcase of innovative food products, handicrafts and woven accessories; Health Forum; Inauguration of the PAGASA Iloilo Doppler and Synoptic Station; Sci-Night, A Tribute to S&T Stakeholders; Visit to the Philippine Science High School Planetarium; Youth Symposium with Scientists and Academicians; and the Philippine Science High School Mini Exhibit of science projects like robotics and chemistry.
