TUGUEGARAO CITY, Cagayan (PIA) - - Science and Technology Secretary Renato U. Solidum urged local government units and other partner institutions to localize the implementation of developed science, technology, and innovation solutions for climate and disaster risks. 

During the AGRIDAM Cagayan Valley 2024, which aims to advocate disaster readiness and resiliency, Solidum discussed the challenges brought by natural disasters in the country, including the Cagayan Valley, a typhoon belt and flood-prone region. 

AGRIDAM or Agile, Gender-sensitive, Resilient, Innovative, Dedicated, Alert, Mindful is a localized version of 'Handa Pilipinas' dedicated to addressing challenges faced by the Cagayan Valley Region. ‘Agridam’ is also an Ilokano word, which means ‘to be alert’.

Solidum said the activity aims to raise public awareness and understanding of science, technology, and innovation in the face of natural hazards.

"Natural hazards pose significant threats to communities worldwide, ranging from earthquakes to floods and wildfires. While we cannot prevent these events from occurring, being prepared can significantly mitigate their impact and save lives, especially in Region 2," he said.

He stressed that climate and disaster risks are local, hence, the solutions and innovations developed through science and technology must be localized. 

The secretary also urged local governments to increase the capacities of communities in responding to disasters and lessen the vulnerabilities of the people.

“Reducing disaster risk can be our legacy. There is no natural disaster, only natural hazards. Therefore, people can mitigate risks by lessening their vulnerabilities and exposures and increasing their capacities," Solidum said. 

The DOST, as the lead agency in the prevention and mitigation cluster of the National and Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils, characterized resilience into three operational goals: reducing various losses (reducing risks), ensuring effective and efficient disaster response, and timely and efficient recovery, building forward better. (OTB/PIA Region 2)