MALAYBALAY CITY, PHILIPPINES—In an effort to enhance public safety and disaster response, Malaybalay City has introduced the Digitized Emergency Tracking Alert System and the GeoPindot Mobile Application. This initiative is a collaborative effort between the local government and the Department of Science and Technology—X (DOST—X).
DOST’s aim is to promote community development through its Smart and Sustainable Communities Program, which integrates smart practices and interventions in Science, Technology, and Innovation (STI).
Mr. Alan J. Comiso, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO), underscored the project’s significance in disaster prevention, mitigation, and preparedness.
“In our digital age, it’s essential to harness technology to improve community safety and disaster readiness. This digital emergency alert system will enable us to respond quickly and efficiently to any emergency—be it natural or human-made—ensuring timely communication and coordination,” Comiso stated.
Given the city’s geographical challenges, which include risks such as rain-induced landslides, flooding, and frequent vehicular accidents, the Digitized Emergency Tracking Alert System aims to enhance emergency management and response planning. It features built-in modeling for effective tactical deployment.
On the same day, the GeoPindot Mobile Application was launched, allowing citizens to report emergencies directly via their mobile devices. This app integrates with the tracking alert system, enabling authorities to monitor incidents in real time, including the location of the reporter.
The launch event included a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, a presentation outlining the collaboration roadmap between the local government and DOST’s SMART Program, technology demonstrations by OBX Solutions Inc., and the signing of a Pledge of Commitment by stakeholders and 15 pilot barangays, all of whom will be instrumental in the project’s rollout.
Mayor Jay Warren Pabillaran highlighted the importance of local partnerships in advancing technology. “Let’s utilize the technology available to us for the benefit of our residents. I’m grateful for the collaboration with DOST, the barangays, and our uniformed personnel in Malaybalay City, as the City Government cannot manage this alone,” he said.
With the rollout of the Digitized Emergency Tracking System and GeoPindot, Malaybalay City is poised to enhance its emergency management capabilities, lead in smart city initiatives, and create a safer, more connected community for all its citizens. (Grazelle S. Dela Cruz/DOST 10)
