WESTERN VISAYAS —A pioneering initiative aimed at revolutionizing disaster response through real-time reporting was launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST).
Known as the Strategic Incident Geo-referencing for Nationwide Alertness (SIGNAL) project, this platform integrates a mobile application for reporting emergencies and a web portal for coordinating emergency responses.
The SIGNAL project, piloted earlier this year at the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and Philippine National Police (PNP), has garnered attention for its potential to facilitate swift and effective responses from local government units (LGUs) and concerned agencies involved in disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM).
Connectivity Issues
OCD Regional Director Raul Fernandez, also chairperson of the Western Visayas Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (RDRRMC), said the adoption of Project SIGNAL by LGUs has been encouraging, albeit with challenges.
While 42 LGUs in the region have actively integrated the platform into their Emergency Operations Centers (EOCs), others face operational hurdles and internet connectivity issues.
Fernandez highlighted the council's resolution urging all LGUs to embrace and utilize Project SIGNAL fully.
Recognizing the need for enhanced training, Fernandez emphasized the upcoming batch of training sessions for EOCs and LGU DRRM officers. These efforts aim to empower local responders with the knowledge and skills needed to leverage the platform effectively during emergencies.
Addressing connectivity concerns, Fernandez suggested utilizing LGUs' DRRM funds to invest in technologies like Starlink for improved internet bandwidth. This investment, he noted, could significantly bolster the platform's operational efficiency and real-time reporting capabilities across the region.
Appropriate Responses
Looking ahead, Fernandez outlined plans for platform enhancements to align with the RDRRMC's situation reports (SITREPs) and the national DRRM EOC standards. Proposed refinements include revising incident categories, particularly in medical emergencies, to ensure more precise reporting and response coordination.
Since its implementation in January, the SIGNAL project has recorded over 4,876 incidents reported through the platform, including medical emergencies, vehicular accidents, and trauma cases.
Fernandez underscored its versatility in capturing various incident types such as landslides and floods, facilitating prompt and appropriate responses from authorities.
As Western Visayas continues to fortify its disaster response capabilities, the SIGNAL project stands as a pivotal tool in enhancing regional resilience. By fostering greater collaboration among LGUs, agencies, and communities, this initiative exemplifies proactive governance in mitigating risks and safeguarding lives during emergencies.
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