MANILA, Philippines, Nov 8, (Agencies): Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr emphasized the need for ongoing development of disaster response technologies to adapt to our ever-changing world. He made this assertion while leading the launch of the "Handa Pilipinas" Visayas leg in Tacloban City, which was severely impacted by Typhoon Yolanda, on Wednesday, Nov 8.

The "Handa Pilipinas" initiative seeks to showcase the government's diverse disaster risk reduction and management efforts. Marcos stressed that although technologies are continually evolving, it is crucial to maximize their use and accelerate their widespread adoption and commercialization. He called on everyone to promote public awareness, enabling citizens to be more proactive, well-informed, and better equipped during emergencies. Science and innovation, he added, must continue to guide their efforts.

Marcos emphasized the importance of addressing the challenges in disaster risk reduction and staying ahead in disaster management. He encouraged Filipinos to learn from the past, not with despair, but with a determination to improve and be better prepared to help their people.

Marcos acknowledged that the launch of the "Handa Pilipinas" Visayas leg was made possible through collaboration with various stakeholders and partners who came together after the devastation of Typhoon Yolanda ten years ago. He highlighted the power of nature and the vulnerability of communities, underscoring the importance of disaster risk reduction and management in the Philippines.

He praised the resilience of the Filipino spirit, particularly in the face of Yolanda and the COVID-19 pandemic. The president assured the government's continued commitment to advancing disaster resilience in the Philippines and recognized the vital role of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in this endeavor.