DOST deploys mobile command vehicle to boost Zambales disaster response

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Central Luzon has deployed a Mobile Command and Control Vehicle (MOCCOV) to the Provincial Government at the covered court of the Zambales Sports Complex in Iba, Zambales, on 7 January.

According to Gov. Hermogenes E. Ebdane Jr., the deployment of the MOCCOV was facilitated through the Provincial Science and Technology Office-Zambales and provided under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program to strengthen the province’s disaster preparedness and emergency response efforts.

To ensure the effective use of the MOCCOV, personnel from the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO) underwent hands-on training on the operation, maintenance, setup, and dismantling of the vehicle.

MetroAsia Marketing and Building Corp. facilitated the training as part of the project’s implementation and turnover process.

Ebdane expressed gratitude to DOST-3 for providing the new technology that will benefit the province of Zambales. He said the MOCCOV would help government responders act faster, operate more efficiently, and coordinate better during emergencies.

“Isang mahalagang hakbang ito tungo sa mas ligtas at mas handang Zambales,” he said.

The MOCCOV is a specialized, high-tech vehicle developed by the DOST to serve as a mobile operations center for disaster response, public safety, and event management.

The fully equipped unit features communication systems, surveillance tools, medical triage facilities, and portable rescue equipment such as boats, allowing it to function as a self-sufficient command hub during emergencies.