DoST focuses ‘very strong’ El Niño battle

The Department of Science and Technology (DoST) announced that this year’s National Science, Technology, and Innovation Week will highlight practical technological solutions to address pressing national crises, particularly the ongoing “very strong” El Niño phenomenon.

Centering on the theme “Science, Technology and Digital Innovation: Driving Food Security, Sustainable Energy, and National Resilience,” DoST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. stated that the upcoming celebration in General Santos City comes at a critical time for addressing climate challenges.

“We are facing the challenge and effects of the ongoing very strong El Niño. And I hope that many of our countrymen, especially in local government, will be able to attend, listen, and explore the solutions relevant to the times,” Solidum said during the media kickoff at the SMX Convention Center in Davao City.

State meteorologists at the DoST-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration warned in September that the El Niño event had intensified to “very strong” status and is projected to persist through mid-2027.

In response, Solidum urged government agencies and local government units to immediately implement scientific innovations to cushion the impact on food security, energy production, and public health.