Early warnings key to early action, says DOST chief

"An alert is only useful if people see it. A warning is only meaningful if people understand it."

This was the statement made by Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. during the opening of the 2026 HANDA Pilipinas Luzon Leg at the SMX Convention Center in Clark, Pampanga on 26 October 2026.

With the theme "Agham at Teknolohiya Para sa Ligtas at Matatag na Bayan," the three-day event brings together local government units, national agencies, disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) practitioners, and industry leaders across Luzon.

Solidum emphasized that early warnings must translate into early action to protect lives and livelihoods. He underscored that science-based tools and timely information help communities anticipate typhoons, floods, landslides, and extreme heat, enabling local governments and families to prepare and make informed decisions before hazards strike.

DOST Regional Director Dr. Julius Caesar V. Sicat said that the theme for the event is "Agham at Teknolohiya Para sa Ligtas at Matatag na Bayan" and is a nationwide disaster resilience and science-and-technology exposition organized to bridge scientific innovations with local government units (LGUs), communities, and the private sector

Secretary Solidum, along with other key officials of the agency, graced the opening, highlighting their dedication in advancing science, technology, and innovation for disaster preparedness, resilience, and emergency response.

The core highlights and tools for the event include the: HANDA Platform, an integrated digital platform for disaster preparedness, early warning, and response developed by DOST and PHIVOLCS.

Some of the key tools featured include geospatial and hazard-mapping tools like GeoRiskPH and HazardHunterPH to help communities assess natural hazards.

The event will also showcase exhibitions and bazaars, including interactive displays of disaster mitigation technologies, science-based solutions, and collaborative enterprise panels.