DOST bares its national flood management program

By Susan G. De Leon

Wednesday 25th of January 2012

TAGUIG CITY, Jan. 25 (PIA) -- The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) introduced a locally-developed scientific flood warning system that offers a more responsive disaster preparedness mechanism for the country.

This is in compliance with President Benigno Aquino III’s directives to concerned government agencies to step up national efforts toward greater and more intensive disaster risk reduction and management procedures in the wake of Typhoon “Sendong.

DOST Secretary Mario Montejo bared the National Flood Monitoring, Forecasting, and Mitigation Program--an integrated, comprehensive system that responds to the urgent need for a reliable flood warning system covering the country’s major river systems and watersheds.

In a news release, Montejo said the National Flood Monitoring Program is government’s commitment toward a more effective and efficient disaster mitigation and monitoring system.

The flood management program, according to Montejo, has four main components: Disaster Risk Exposure, Assessment, and Mitigation (DREAM); FLOODNET; Sensors Development and Weather Media.

“Disaster preparedness will entail a team effort, so that together we will be able to achieve goals and end-results mutually beneficial for all,” Montejo added.

Montejo also stressed the vital role of communication so the public will understand the usage and effectiveness of these devices, which are about ready to roll out. (DOST/RJB/SDL/PIA-NCR)