The Department of Science and Technology XI (DOST XI) through its Provincial Science and Technology Office (PSTO) Davao del Sur, recently delivered essential Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) equipment to Barangay Balnate in Magsaysay and Barangay Saliducon in Santa Cruz to fortify disaster resilience efforts in Davao del Sur.
According to PSTO Davao del Sur, Brgy. Balnate contends with the threat of floods and earthquakes, making the provision of DRRM equipment vital for preparedness and response. Meanwhile, Brgy. Saliducon, recognized by the Poverty Reduction, Livelihood, and Employment Cluster of the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict , not only experiences earthquakes but also struggles with limited accessibility during emergencies due to its classification as a Geographically Isolated and Disadvantaged Area (GIDA).
The distributed equipment included hard hats, emergency lights, rescue boards, and emergency bags, which are essential tools that enable swift and effective disaster interventions.
Preceding the equipment turnover, PSTO Davao del Sur also conducted comprehensive training sessions on disaster prevention, mitigation, and earthquake hazard awareness for personnel in both barangays.
The initiative forms part of the broader Community Empowerment thru Science and Technology (CEST) Program, which advocates for the adoption of science-based approaches in disaster prevention and mitigation.
DOST Davao del Sur Provincial Director Ms. Leslie Cancio-Dy said that the turnover of DRRM equipment underscores DOST’s commitment to empower communities and enhance their capacity to respond effectively to disasters.
“DOST will continue to strengthen GIDAs and marginalized communities in
