Legarda: Utilize Science for a Better PHL

Senator Loren Legarda today said that the nation should utilize science, technology, and innovation in transforming the Philippines into a country not just of potential but of actual success.

Legarda made the statement in time for the 2013 National Science and Technology Week (July 23-27, 2013).

“The science community is a vital sector that must be tapped to provide the needed innovations to address the pressing needs of various sectors like agriculture, transportation, industry and services as well as improve climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts,” said Legarda.

The Senator noted that the Philippines’ growth should be translated to better services for Filipinos. She said that programs based on scientific research and innovation can change lives by averting disasters, safeguarding jobs, incomes, and livelihoods, enhancing food supply, promoting environmental sustainability, and combating poverty.

“Through science, our cities will be planned better; our farmers and fisherfolk will be more adequately supported; our people will live in a healthier and safer environment; and our economic growth will finally start to benefit all,” Legarda said.

Meanwhile, Legarda also cited the improvements in the country’s climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction programs as announced by President Benigno Aquino III in his State of the Nation Address yesterday.

“We are making headway in improving our disaster preparedness. The Project NOAH (Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards) has been helpful particularly in providing the needed equipment to provide accurate information and timely warnings to our communities,” she said.

“We also note the ongoing work for the completion of multi-hazard mapping and geohazard mapping. According to the President, geohazard mapping will be completed by the end of 2015, while the multi-hazard mapping of the Greater Metro Manila Area is expected to be done by 2014, following the completion of similar mapping in 28 hazardous areas. In all these efforts, science and technology has been our great weapon,” she added.

“The Department of Science and Technology has been tireless in providing solutions that address the country’s challenges in environmental sustainability, jobs and livelihoods, rural development, and disaster resilience. We hope that the path the DOST is treading on will lead to a better and smarter Philippines,” Legarda concluded.