Located at the newly renovated office space within the DOST complex in Bicutan, Taguig City.

The hub, called PROPEL (Accelerating Innovation in the Philippines, Propelling Innovation from the Philippines), will serve as a functional space where stakeholders can foster innovation and partnerships.

鈥淔or years, we have invested in research, strengthened our laboratories, and nurtured Filipino talent. Today, we affirm that our work does not end with discovery,鈥� DOST secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said in his keynote speech during the launch event.

鈥淚t must continue until innovation reaches the marketplace, benefits communities, creates jobs, and improves lives,鈥� he added.

Mr. Solidum also said that the hub is complementary to existing DOST innovation hubs across the country and will work in partnership with universities, research institutions, and regional stakeholders.

Apart from fostering partnerships, the hub is also expected to showcase programs, projects, innovations, and knowledge products supported by the PROPEL program, DOST鈥檚 commercialization arm for transforming science and technology innovations into viable enterprises.

Among the technologies featured in the PROPEL hub is Hiraya Technology Solutions Inc., a Filipino startup that uses artificial intelligence (AI) to automate water management and detect leaks in residential and commercial systems.

The PROPEL Business Hub and Exhibit Center also incorporates platforms designed to assist stakeholders at every stage of their innovation journey.

鈥淭hese platforms create a dynamic, interconnected system, with PROPEL at its vibrant center,鈥� Napoleon K. Juanillo Jr., DOST assistant secretary for technology transfer, communications, and commercialization, said in his keynote speech.

These include PHITEST, or the Philippine Technology Evaluation Standards for Testing, which serves as a rigorous validation and certification framework ensuring that Filipino innovations meet international standards.

Another platform is aiJUANAKnow, an AI-powered business development engine that provides innovators with deep market intelligence.

Also included is Piso-Piso Partnerships (PPP), a platform designed to democratize investment in science and technology, particularly for local startups, by making it accessible to everyone.

Starting at P1, anyone across the globe can contribute to startups they want to support.

“With even the smallest contribution, you become a part of building something bigger,” Mr. Juanillo said.

Moving forward, Mr. Juanillo told reporters he is optimistic that the PROPEL Business Hub and Exhibit Center will gain more attention in the coming years and help more local startups and innovators. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

Rafaela Jane P. Delfino, assistant professor at the Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology at the University of the Philippines Diliman, made the statement, citing the findings of various studies.

Among these are simulations from the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) that compared historical storm data from 1971 to 2005 with future projections from 2036 to 2065.

Most of the models showed that the country is likely to experience a steady or even decreased number of tropical cyclones. However, the likelihood of stronger typhoons is higher.

鈥淚n terms of the number of typhoons, either stable or decreasing鈥� Pero yung mga mas malakas na bagyo mas dumadami sila [But the stronger storms are increasing],鈥� Ms. Delfino said during her presentation at the 161st National and 76th Meteorological Day press conference.
The Philippines currently averages 20 tropical cyclones per year.

Ms. Delfino said that this trend has already been occurring in recent years, citing findings from PAGASA.

But what is particularly concerning, she said, is the increase in the number of super
typhoons that develop in or enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) in the same period.

The annual average of super typhoons entering the PAR increased from 1.5 per year between 1993 and 2002 to three per year between 2003 and 2020鈥攁 more than 100% increase.

Super typhoons are the highest tropical cyclone category in the Philippines, with maximum sustained wind speeds exceeding 185 kilometers per hour.

At this level, PAGASA hoists Storm Signal No. 5 in affected areas, as winds can pose an extreme threat to both life and property.

Tropical cyclones such as Haiyan (locally Yolanda), Goni (Rolly), and Rai (Odette) were classified as super typhoons, known for their devastating effects.

Ms. Delfino also said that rainfall associated with tropical cyclones has increased by 6鈥�7% in recent studies compared to pre-industrial times and is projected to rise by up to 16% in the future.

What causes this? Ms. Delfino explained that human activities, such as increased emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases, have contributed to global warming, accelerating climate change and its impacts, particularly over the past 200 years.

She added that warmer waters further induced by man-made activities make tropical cyclones stronger, increase their size, and contribute to rapid intensification, making storms more devastating.

鈥淭his leads to significant damage and loss of life and, more often than not, hinders sustainable development,鈥� Ms. Delfino said.

Natural hazards, such as typhoons, cost the Philippines about 0.5% of the country鈥檚 gross domestic product (GDP) per year, with losses reaching almost 4.5% of GDP in 2013 due to Super Typhoon Haiyan, according to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) 2026 report.

Extreme weather events also have lingering economic effects, cutting local economic activity by up to 2.2% immediately, with 1.7 percentage points of the impact still felt five years later, even after post-disaster adaptation, relief, and reconstruction efforts.

Without climate change mitigation, the Philippines could see GDP losses of around 5% by 2040 and up to 18% by 2070 compared with a scenario without climate change, the report also said.

Meanwhile, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO) on Monday warned that Earth鈥檚 climate system is more out of balance than ever in recorded history, as greenhouse gases continue to warm the atmosphere and oceans and accelerate the melting of ice.

WMO said that the years 2015 to 2025 were the hottest 11 years on record, with 2025 ranking among the second and third hottest years at approximately 1.43掳C above the 1850鈥�1900 average.

This imbalance increases the risk of extreme weather events, including stronger tropical cyclones, heavier rainfall, more intense heatwaves, and rising sea levels.

The report calls for urgent action, emphasizing the need to cut greenhouse gas emissions and accelerate the transition to cleaner energy.

It also calls for strengthening early warning systems and climate-resilient planning to protect communities and economies. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

The P4.9-million Drilling Fluids Research and Innovation (DFRI) Laboratory will be launched on March 25 in Puerto Princesa, Palawan, DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) said in a statement on Thursday.

It is expected to help the country develop its own sustainable drilling fluids, specialized liquids crucial to modern oil and gas exploration and operations.

The facility is funded through the Institution Development Program (IDP) of DOST-PCIEERD and will house highly specialized equipment.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said developing drilling materials locally has become strategically important amid volatile fuel prices driven by growing tensions in the Middle East. The region accounts for 98% of the country鈥檚 crude oil imports, according to the Department of Energy (DOE).

鈥淕iven the ongoing instability in global oil supply chains and persistent fuel price hikes, the ability to develop local substitutes for critical drilling materials becomes strategically important to secure our future in sustaining our own petroleum products like drilling fluids,鈥� Mr. Solidum said in a statement.

Among the developments at the facility are drilling fluids enhanced with nano iron oxide and nanosilica, developed by PalSU researchers led by Morlie L. Talimbay.

DOST-PCIEERD said these developments are part of ongoing research to create local alternative drilling fluids that are lower in cost and more environmentally sustainable than conventional counterparts.

鈥淔or now, we are looking at conducting further studies, including field validation, which are needed to assess their cost-effectiveness and overall performance,鈥� Mr. Talimbay said.

He added that the new DFRI Laboratory could contribute to the country鈥檚 energy and economic needs.

DOST-PCIEERD said outputs from the facility will be recommended to the DOE as it seeks to increase oil and natural gas exploration yields.

Looking ahead, DOST-PCIEERD aims for the DFRI Laboratory to become a national center for petroleum R&D and related research in the coming years. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

The agency inaugurated the Iloilo S-Band Radar Facility and held the groundbreaking of a new synoptic station.

The radar facility, which is equipped with a state-of-the-art dual-polarimetric Doppler system, will improve weather monitoring across Western Visayas, PAGASA said.

It will provide high-resolution, real-time data essential for tracking heavy rainfall, severe storms, and tropical cyclones.

Operating at lower frequencies and longer wavelengths, the radar can detect atmospheric conditions to support reliable large-scale weather observations.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr. said during his keynote address that the radar is a vital safeguard for the country against meteorological hazards.

鈥淚t is the combination of technology, skilled scientists, proactive leaders, and a well-informed public that truly builds resilience. This is why we continue to invest in modernizing PAGASA鈥檚 equipment, enhancing forecasting capabilities, and bringing science closer to communities,” Mr. Solidum said.

Meanwhile, the new synoptic station will serve as a vital weather observation facility in the province once completed.

Dr. Nathaniel T. Servando, administrator of DOST-PAGASA, highlighted the role of the synoptic station in the broader monitoring network, noting that accurate measurements are the foundation of every forecast.

He said the facility will deliver continuous and reliable observations of key atmospheric parameters.

鈥淲ithout reliable observations, there can be no accurate forecasts, and without accurate forecasts, preparedness becomes a challenge,鈥� he said.

DOST-PAGASA said the completion of these facilities underscores the agency鈥檚 commitment to modernizing its nationwide monitoring network and improving the delivery of reliable public weather services.

Through upgraded infrastructure and coordination with local governments and partner agencies, the agency aims to strengthen disaster preparedness and community resilience in the region. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

鈥淭he strong surface-to-deep temperature contrast observed in the southern Philippine Sea meets the thermal requirements for OTEC (Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion),鈥� Dr. Charina Lyn Amedo-Repollo, lead of the Physical Oceanography and Observation Laboratory, said in a statement.

She noted that this indicates the area has high potential for continuous baseload renewable energy, and added that it could also support applications for desalination and seawater cooling.

The southern Philippine Sea was found to be ideal, as the critical 20-degree Celsius temperature difference between surface and deep water is already observed at a depth of only 200 meters, Dr. Amedo- Repollo said.

This is shallower than what is observed in many other tropical regions and other parts of the world, where the same temperature difference is found at depths of up to 1,000 meters or deeper.

The 20-degree Celsius temperature difference is ideal for efficiently operating OTEC, a renewable energy source that harnesses the temperature gap between warm surface waters and colder deep waters.

The findings said the unique condition of the southern Philippine Sea is due to its open-ocean environment exposed to solar heating and influenced by large-scale ocean circulation.

The expedition was led by the University of California, Santa Cruz and joined by scientists from UP MSI and Mindanao State University – Naawan last December.

The team surveyed submarine volcanoes, active faults, internal waves, and areas for potential renewable energy in the Sulu Sea, Celebes Sea, and southern Philippine Sea.

Meanwhile, the researchers also found previously unmapped faults off eastern Palawan. One lies along the continental slope and shows about 10 meters of displacement, while another extends about 20 kilometers along the projected extension of the Ulugan Bay Fault, cutting through sediment layers.

The findings align with earlier mapping by French and German scientists and may explain the magnitude-5.1 earthquake that struck Palawan on June 11, 2024, which PHIVOLCS linked to a known fault in the area.

Dr. Fernando P. Siringan, who led the Philippine team, said the structures could also be tied to volcanic features in the Sulu Sea and stressed the need to reassess Palawan鈥檚 geology, especially it is being considered as a potential nuclear power plant site. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

If skies are clear, the maximum eclipse, or the phenomenon鈥檚 peak, is expected at 7:34 pm, PAGASA said in an official statement.

As for the timeline, the Moon will enter totality, or the moment when it is fully covered by Earth鈥檚 shadow, at 7:04 pm, remain in the planet鈥檚 primary shadow until 8:03 pm, and fully exit the umbral shadow at 9:17 pm.

In Manila, the Moon will rise at 5:58 pm, with the partial eclipse already visible, and will remain eclipsed until it exits the penumbral shadow 鈥� the faint outer part of Earth鈥檚 shadow 鈥� at 10:25 pm.

鈥淭he total lunar eclipse is very easy to observe. A modest pair of binoculars will provide an excellent view of the Moon鈥檚 surface, but is not required,鈥� PAGASA said in a statement.

It added that, unlike a solar eclipse, a total lunar eclipse is completely safe to observe and does not require any protective eyewear.

A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes between the Sun and the Moon, causing the Earth to cast a shadow onto the Moon.

鈥淒uring the maximum eclipse, the umbral shadow cast by the Earth will obscure 100% of the Moon鈥檚 disk,鈥� PAGASA said. It added that the phenomenon is also called a blood moon because it appears red due to the way Earth鈥檚 atmosphere filters and scatters sunlight.

The total lunar eclipse will also be completely visible in other regions, including Eastern Asia, Australia, the Central Pacific, and most of the Americas. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

Silver nanoparticles are extremely tiny particles of silver and are widely known for their antimicrobial properties, having been used in several applications such as medical use and clothing products.

However, producing them often requires strong reducing agents and stabilizers, which can be toxic, and disposing of them safely poses a challenge.

To solve this, scientists from UP-Diliman College of Science (UPD-CS) replaced these harsh chemicals with gamma radiation along with a natural seaweed-derived substance called carrageenan to create the nanoparticles.

鈥淚n simple terms, we let radiation do the 鈥渨ork鈥� of forming the particles, while the seaweed extract keeps them stable and safe. We then tested how effective these particles are against common bacteria,鈥� Mon Bryan Gili, one of the researchers from UPD-CS, said in a statement.

The method also sterilizes the nanoparticles as they form, making them ideal for medical use.

Mr. Gili noted that the groundbreaking method incorporates fewer processing steps and less chemical waste, and is safer for people and the environment, making it greener compared to traditional chemical methods.

Other UPD-CS researchers behind the greener approach to nanoparticles include Wendell Manuel, Dr. Marinette Vega, and Dr. Marlon Conato, as well as Rakshith Gowda Shankaregowda and Dr. Manh-Huong Phan of the University of South Florida.

UP said that the team鈥檚 concern for environmental safety and the growing issue of antibiotic resistance motivated them to explore alternative ways of producing silver nanoparticles.

Moving ahead, Mr. Gili said that they aim to improve the long-term stability of the produced nanoparticles and test them in real-world products, as well as assess their safety for human use.

鈥淯ltimately, we hope this technology can lead to affordable, locally produced antibacterial materials using Philippine natural resources and nuclear science expertise,鈥� he added.

The researchers detailed the approach in a study titled 鈥淎ntibacterial evaluation of radiolytically synthesized silver nanoparticles with 喂-carrageenan stabilizers.鈥�
It was published in the journal Radiation Physics and Chemistry, which covers research on ionizing radiation and its various applications. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

Glenn S.听Banaguas, a science diplomat with听advocacies听on climate-disaster resiliency and environmental sustainability, was one of the first Laureates of the Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Award announced on Monday.听

鈥淚 really don鈥檛 know what I鈥檓 going to say鈥his particular award is under the patronage of the president of Egypt,鈥� he told听大象传媒听in a Zoom interview on Tuesday.听

鈥淚 was speechless, and the only words that I would utter听was听just听鈥楾hank you so much鈥�,鈥� he added.听

Mr.听Banaguas听became known for his dedication to helping the disadvantaged through his Environmental & Climate Change Research Institute and its 鈥淐limate Smart Philippines: Science for Service鈥� initiative.听

鈥淒uring the earliest times in 2010 up to the present, most of our research projects are focusing on this particular sector,鈥� he said. 鈥淚t鈥檚 a volunteer research organization so 90% of our projects in the Philippines are for free – it鈥檚 pro bono.鈥澨�

Some of his works include providing practical solutions such as biofuels, flood and drought forecasting devices, disaster-prediction systems, and sustainable energy and health systems.听

鈥淢ost of the research projects are concentrating on our farmers, fisherfolks, indigenous people, because I know that every time there is a disaster, the poor become poorer,鈥� he said. 鈥淎nd every time there鈥檚 a disaster, these particular sectors suffer so much.鈥澨�

鈥淲hat I really want to do is just do research because I know that this particular research will really create positive impacts in the lives of our people, and that鈥檚 really听my goal,鈥� he added.听

Before becoming a multi-awarded scientist, Mr.听Banaguas听first dreamt of becoming a priest.听

鈥淚 really wanted to become a priest, I really don鈥檛 want to become a scientist,鈥� he said. 鈥淲hat I really wanted to do is to serve the Lord, serve God with all my heart.鈥澨�

鈥淭his particular vocation is not really meant for听me,听so I said all right, I will serve through our people,鈥� he added.听

The Bibliotheca Alexandrina International Award aims to honor individuals with significant contributions听on听a specific theme听determined听by the Higher Committee of the Award. The field of the award鈥檚 first edition was 鈥淕reen Technology Applications for Achieving Well-Being and Happiness for Humanity.鈥澨�

Award winners will receive a monetary value of one million Egyptian pounds听(1.2 million pesos), along with a gold medal and an official certificate of excellence听to be given听in February in Cairo, Egypt.听

鈥淭he money that we get every time I win in a competition or in awards like this, we use it for research purposes,鈥� he said. 鈥淪ometimes I also allot something for the orphans because part of my advocacy is to give it to the orphanage, a portion of it.鈥� 鈥斕�Almira Louise S. Martinez

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is developing various research initiatives to make bamboo, a sustainable construction material, more fire-resistant.听

In a statement released Friday, DOST said the deadly fire in Hong Kong last November has sparked talks about the use of bamboo in construction and its fire safety.听

DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI) Director Dr. Rico J. Cabangon said that bamboo, like any other organic material, is naturally combustible.听

鈥�(But) with proper testing, drying, treatment, and the use of fire-safety technologies, the risk of ignition and flame spread can be significantly reduced,鈥� Mr. Cabangon said.听

Among the ongoing research at DOST-FPRDI to help bamboo become more fire-resistant is the development of a fire-retardant coating using nano-sized montmorillonite clay.听
The Institute said the material is a low-cost and less toxic alternative to imported chemicals.听

The coating forms a protective layer that delays ignition and limits flame spread.听

Initially developed for wood products, the technology is now being explored for bamboo applications.听

DOST-FPRDI is also developing a bamboo-derived cellulose nanofiber aerogel sourced from听kauayan-tinik听(Bambusa spinosa听Roxb.).听

This material is designed as a safer and more sustainable fire-retardant additive for construction insulation, including bamboo-based applications. It is considered safe for both humans and the environment.听

To support these research initiatives, DOST-FPRDI operates its Fire Testing Laboratory, which evaluates the fire resistance of wood and non-wood materials, including bamboo.听

The facility exposes samples to a small flame for 15 or 30 seconds to assess ignitability and combustibility.听

Mr. Cabangon said that the said initiatives reflect the Institute鈥檚 proactive steps to address fire safety concerns over bamboo in construction.听

鈥淭hrough expanding our testing services and research, we aim to ensure that bamboo remains a credible material for building and construction,鈥� he furthered.听

DOST-FPRDI also emphasized that using bamboo in construction听remains听a more sustainable听option听than timber, as it can be harvested much earlier and absorbs carbon dioxide throughout its growth.听It is also generally more cost-effective than metals and other conventional materials.听

Meanwhile, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said the agency runs long-term programs to support the safe use of bamboo in construction and other applications.听

DOST-FPRDI is a government research institute dedicated to developing and improving forest and wood-based products, including bamboo. 鈥斕�Edg Adrian A. Eva

The species belong to a type of box jellyfish called听carybdeid听jellyfish, which is known for its distinct cube-shaped bell and potent venom. It is commonly found in warm coastal waters like the Philippines.听

Among the key findings are the country鈥檚 first records of听Alatina听alata,听Carybdea听cuboides,听Malo听sp., and听Morbakka听virulenta. The researchers also confirmed new records for Copula听Copula听sivickisi听and听Malo听filipina.听

The team of marine researchers is composed of听Russel听Christine听Corcino听and Dr.听Lemnuel听Aragones听from the University of the Philippines-听Diliman听College of Science鈥檚 Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology.听

It is also joined by Dr. Sheldon Rey听Boco听and Christine Gloria Grace听Capidos听of The Philippine Jellyfish Stings Project, Dr.听Phuping听Sucharitakul听of the Batavia Coast Maritime Institute in Western Australia; Ram Yoro of RY Photography; Dennis听Corpuz听of听Anilao听Critters Studio; and Scott听Tuason听of Squires Sports Philippines.听

But,听why bother studying them? Ms.听Boco听said learning听carybdeid听jellyfish is vital as they are part of the marine food听chain听and their presence or absence can听indicate听the health of marine ecosystems.听

鈥淭hey eat smaller creatures and are food for bigger ones, helping keep everything in check,鈥� Ms.听Boco听said in a press release statement.听

Also, she noted that their听venom听are听strong enough to cause hospitalization, making the study of how their venom works lead to better treatments and help save more lives.听

During its research, the team combined different methods such as on-site observations and the use of high-resolution underwater photography and videography. They also used citizen science participation verified through digital authentication.听

Ms.听Boco听said that听observing听them is 鈥渆xtremely challenging,鈥� with most species dwelling in hard-to-reach offshore waters at least听100 meters听from shore and at depths of 20 to 30 meters.听听

From 2017 to听2021 and in 2024, the team conducted various听blackwater听dives over open water, with each requiring stringent preparation and certification. They听observed听and听documented听carybdeid听box jellyfish in their visible swimming form, called the medusa stage.听听

Ms.听Boco听said that the team also gathered photos and videos from recreational divers through citizen science, but proving their authenticity was a challenge, especially with听generative听artificial intelligence now capable of creating convincing fake jellyfish听images.听

Looking forward, the team plans to make citizen science even easier and faster by no longer requiring听the听filling out听of听long forms. They also intend to conduct more on-site experiments during night dives to better understand jellyfish behavior and environmental conditions.听

The team eventually aims to predict where听carybdeid听jellyfish will appear now听and in the future,听not just locally but also across nearby seas.听

The Philippines is located within the Coral Triangle, a region known as one of the world鈥檚 richest marine biodiversity hotspots and a critical habitat for these jellyfish species. 鈥斕�Edg听Adrian A. Eva

Climate change has caused an estimated P463 billion in damages to the Philippines, of which about 62.7% or P290 billion was incurred by the agriculture sector due to extreme weather events such as typhoons and severe high temperatures, according to a 2021 report by the United Nations World Food Programme.

Sugarcane, one of the country鈥檚 major crops, was not spared from the effects of climate change.

Data from the Sugar Regulatory Administration showed that the country recorded its lowest milled, raw, and refined sugar output in crop year 2022 to 2023, the lowest in the last five crop years since 2018 to 2019, mainly due to the El Ni帽o鈥搃nduced dry spell.

Although El Ni帽o is not caused by climate change, it may be affected by it in terms of frequency and intensity, according to an earlier report from the state weather bureau.

To help farmers cope with the effects of climate change, DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. said the agency has introduced various smart farming technologies on Negros Island, where about 60% of the country鈥檚 sugar output is produced.

鈥淲e have the furrow irrigation system so that we can maximize the use of rain,鈥� Mr. Solidum told 大象传媒.

鈥淎nd it has been proven that it can increase the production of sugarcane…around 50%.鈥�

DOST鈥檚 Automated Furrow Irrigation System was developed to help sugarcane farmers save water and improve crop yield by ensuring that irrigation water is applied in precise amounts and at the right time. The farming solution was first introduced in 2022.

Meanwhile, Rowen R. Gelonga, regional director of DOST Region VI, said the agency seeks to introduce a smart farming solution in Negros Island that uses modern technologies such as soil moisture sensors and geographic information systems (GIS) to help farmers better adapt to changing weather conditions.

鈥淥ne component of that is really to capacitate the farmers to understand climate change and weather phenomena,鈥� Mr. Gelonga told 大象传媒.

The project, called Project SARAI Centro, features an accessible and free online application that allows sugarcane farmers to view weather and climate outlooks, as well as receive recommendations on the best times for planting and harvesting.

It also has a mobile application called SPIDTECH that helps farmers identify, monitor, and report crop pest and disease incidences.

Mr. Gelonga said they aim to first train local government units in the region by the end of the year, who will later implement the project and empower local farmers. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

鈥淣akafocus tayo sa [We鈥檙e focused on] the ‘Big One鈥� in Metro Manila because, basically, it鈥檚 the political seat of the government and the economic hub of the country,鈥� Teresito C. Bacolcol, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), said during the press conference of Handa Pilipinas held in Bacolod City on Monday.听

鈥淏ut again, nakakalimutan natin [we forget] that there are bigger ones in other parts of the country鈥he Negros Trench (example) is capable of generating an 8.2 (magnitude) event based on its length of around 400 kilometers long.鈥�听

Mr. Bacolcol said, in the event of the Negros Island鈥檚 鈥淏ig One鈥�, if its epicenter occurred in a shallow area, it may trigger a tsunami, which could affect the western coastlines of Negros Island, as well as areas of Panay Island, Zamboanga, and Palawan.听

During a tsunami, residents along the affected coastlines and neighboring areas are advised to immediately evacuate to higher ground. Mr. Bacolcol noted that previous local tsunami events showed it would take only around five minutes for a tsunami wave to hit the coast after the main shock.听

Apart from Big Ones in Negros and Manila, Mr. Bacolcol said that other active trenches could also trigger similar events, notably along the Philippine Trench.听

PHIVOLCS said that the country has six active trenches in total.听

Renato U. Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), clarified that the 鈥淏ig One鈥� events are not predictions, but potential scenarios based on available data.听

Mr. Solidum said that these scenarios are being used to help vulnerable areas better prepare for a possibly strong and destructive earthquake.听

In Siquijor, an island province in the Negros Island Region, it seeks to prepare for the 鈥淏ig One鈥� by looking into the structural integrity of buildings and conducting comprehensive earthquake drills, Blezela Mae L. Omictin, Provincial Director of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office said.听

鈥淲e do the earthquake drills; we do them in schools, then in coordination with the local barangays and our local disaster risk management office in every municipality,鈥� Ms. Omictin said during the press conference.听

The PHIVOLCS director still reminded the public to always be prepared for the possibility of the 鈥淏ig One鈥� in various areas of the country. 鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva听

The facility is called the QC-Anthill Circularity Hub and it is strategically placed in the Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility (PCDF), once known as a garbage dump, but has been transformed into an ecological park.听

鈥淭extile waste is often overlooked, but it鈥檚 one of the fastest-growing types of urban waste,鈥� Mayor Maria Josefina 鈥淛oy鈥� G. Belmonte said during the launch event.听

鈥淭hrough the Circularity Hub, we鈥檙e proving that sustainability can be both creative and empowering.鈥�听

The facility was made possible through a public-private partnership between the city government, Anthill, a Cebu-based social and cultural enterprise, and the Pilipinas Shell Foundation.听

Other organizations, such as the Maybank Foundation and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), will also support the development of artisans鈥� skills听

Anthill鈥檚 co-founder, Joy Anya Lim, said that 20 artisans from Payatas will undergo a three-month-long training program with daily compensation.听

After the training, ten of the artisans will proceed to a six-month probationary period, after which they may be absorbed as full-time employees of the facility.听

鈥淲e are not just promoting sustainability by removing this waste, but we鈥檙e also providing a sustainable livelihood for these women, most of whom are mothers,鈥� Ms. Lim told 大象传媒 in mixed English and Filipino.听

“Most of them earn very little from making rags, but now they have a better chance of earning more,鈥� Ms. Lim also said.听

The Bureau of Jail Management and Penology is also set to support the hub by allowing Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) to sort textile waste that will be used by artisans.”听

Quezon City Mayor urged more brands and businesses to support the hub’s circular initiative, such as donating their textile waste to the hub or having clothing made at the hub instead of buying it overseas.听

鈥淲e call on our business community, especially those based in Quezon City, to explore how textile circular solutions can be part of your supply chains,鈥� Ms. Belmonte said.听

鈥淟et鈥檚 work together to upcycle textile waste and turn it into something useful, so we can help build a greener and more responsible city,鈥� she added.鈥� Edg Adrian A. Eva

Isang, the ninth tropical cyclone this year, was located in the vicinity of Casiguran, Aurora, moving westward at a speed of 15 km/hr, according to the 11:00 am tropical cyclone bulletin of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA).听听

Tropical Depression Isang has maximum sustained winds of 55 km/hr and gustiness of up to 90 km/hr.听听

Tropical cyclone wind signal no. 1 is in effect in several areas in Luzon, including the provinces of Batanes, Cagayan, Isabela, Quirino, Nueva Vizcaya, Apayao, Kalinga, Abra, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Benguet, Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union, and Pangasinan.听听

It is also raised over the northern portions and central portions of Aurora (Casiguran, Dinalungan, Dilasag, Baler, Maria Aurora, Dipaculao, San Luis) and the northern portion of Nueva Ecija (Lupao, Carranglan, Pantabangan, San Jose City).听

Under TCWS No. 1, wind speeds of 39 to 61km/hr are expected with a minimal to minor threat to life and property.听听

PAGASA said that small seacrafts along the seaboards of Batanes and Cagayan are advised not to venture out due to rough sea conditions.听

Tropical Depression Isang is still expected to move generally westward, traversing Northern Luzon in the next 12 hours, then eventually exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility on Saturday morning or afternoon. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

Caezar Angelito E. Arceo, chief science research specialist of the DOST-Technology Application and Promotion Institute (DOST-TAPI), told 大象传媒 that the agency has various programs to help Filipino inventors and researchers in their journey from research and development to commercialization.听

鈥淓ven if they have no intention yet to market or commercialize, as long as they already have a working prototype or a concept that is novel and patentable, we will support them,鈥� Mr. Arceo said in both mixed English and Tagalog during a field site visit in Albay on Thursday.听听

For researchers and inventors seeking to improve their concepts, DOST has various research councils that can help them, Mr. Arceo said. Some of these include the Philippine Council for Health Research and Development (PCHRD).听听

They can also go to innovation hubs (i-hubs) located across the country, which serve as dedicated spaces for innovation and startups. In the Bicol Region, i-hubs can be found in all six provinces.听

On concerns over funding and intellectual property protection, Mr. Arceo said that TAPII is a dedicated arm of the DOST for these natters. The institute also ensures that researchers and innovators can bridge their work to the market.听听

鈥淲e provide financial assistance 鈥� we directly give the money to the grantee. We also offer technical assistance; if there are gaps, we accommodate their concerns and also help link them to the right persons,鈥� Mr. Arceo said.听听

Johnny B. Ba帽ez, a 30-year old inventor of the motorized multi-purpose machine for grating and shredding, has received support from DOST-TAPII through funding and by securing a utility model patent.听

鈥淣apaka-importante ng tulong ng DOST dahil may funds sila at may tao sila na handang tumulong sa mga ideas na pwedeng gawin [The help of DOST is very important because they have funds and people who are willing to support ideas that can be developed],鈥� Mr. Ba帽ez told 大象传媒.听听

Mr. Arceo said researchers and innovators should not hesitate to approach the DOST if they have novel discoveries, as the agency can help develop and protect their works and eventually bridge them for the benefit of the public. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

In its weather bulletin released at 5:00 am, PAGASA said that under Signal No. 2, Itbayat is expected to experience winds of 62 to 88 km/h, which can pose a minor to moderate threat to life and property.

Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal No. 1 is also in place for the rest of Batanes province, where winds of 39 to 61 km/h are expected, which can pose a minimal to minor threat to life and property.

Typhoon Gorio slightly intensifies to 140 km/h from 130 km/h near its center, with gusts of up to 170 km/h from 160 km/h.

It was located 165 km Northeast of Itbayat, Batanes, moving west-northwestward at a speed of 25 km/h.

PAGASA said that Gorio is expected to exit the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on Wednesday afternoon or evening as it continues to approach the eastern coast of southern Taiwan.

A Gale warning has also been issued to the seaboards in Batanes and Babuyan Islands, where rough waves of up to 9.0 meters and 3.5 meters are expected, respectively.

Small vessels are advised not to venture out to sea under these conditions, PAGASA said. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

In PAGASA鈥檚 latest press briefing released at 5:00 am, Gorio has strengthened into a typhoon with maximum sustained winds of 120 km/h and gustiness reaching 150 km/h. 听

Typhoon Gorio was spotted at 745 km East of Itbayat, Batanes, moving westward at 25km/h, and is likely to head for Taiwan.听听

PAGASA鈥檚 weather specialist Obet Badrina said that despite Gorio having intensified into a typhoon, its effects are not yet directly felt in the country, and it has not yet affected the existing southwest monsoon during the forecast period.听

鈥淎t present, there are no tropical cyclone wind signals raised in our country, and you can see that Typhoon Gorio still has no direct impact on any part of the islands,鈥� Mr. Badrina said in both mixed English and Filipino during the press briefing.听听

Typhoon Gorio is forecast to make landfall in Taiwan on Wednesday afternoon, eventually exiting the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on that evening.听听

However, if the typhoon further intensifies and its movement goes slightly downward, a tropical cyclone wind signal may be raised in extreme northern Luzon, likely Batanes, Mr. Badrina said.听听

Rain showers may still occur in most parts of the country, especially in the Western portion, due to the southwest monsoon and localized thunderstorms.听 – Edg Adrian A. Eva

In its latest weather bulletin issued at 11 am, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said that Gorio has maintained its strength, with maximum sustained winds of 110 km/h and gustiness of up to 135 km/h.

It is also expected to intensify to typhoon category from severe tropical storm category within the next 12 hours.

PAGASA said that Gorio was located 1,170 km east of extreme Northern Luzon and was moving westward at a 鈥榝ast pace鈥� rate of 25 km/h. The state weather bureau added that it is likely to make landfall in Taiwan on Wednesday.

“At dahil sa bilis ng paggalaw niya, by Wednesday ay nasa labas na ito ng Philippine Area of Responsibility 鈥� Wednesday night po [Due to its speed of movement, it will be outside the Philippine Area of Responsibility by Wednesday 鈥� Wednesday night, to be exact],” John Manalo, PAGASA鈥檚 weather specialist said in a Press Briefing.

Mr. Manalo said that Gorio has no direct or indirect effect on the country鈥檚 current weather conditions due to its distance and insufficient strength. So, there is a current low chance of rainfall throughout the country.

However, Mr. Manalo reminded the public that there is still a chance that Gorio may move southward and directly affect extreme northern Luzon areas like Batanes, which may prompt the raising of Tropical Cyclone Wind Signal (TCWS) No. 1.

PAGASA also cautioned the public and disaster-related offices to take all necessary actions to protect life and property. It also reminded residents in hazard-prone areas to evacuate if advised by officials. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

In Barangay Alitas in Infanta, Quezon Province, where saltwater and freshwater quietly converge, trees with roots rising from the shallows dominate the landscape. These salt-tolerant trees, known as mangroves鈥攐r bakauan in Filipino鈥攈ave long sustained the community with food, protection, and resilience.

For Sherwin P. Aveno, a 36-year-old rice farmer and part-time fisherman, mangroves are more than just trees. As president of the Alitas Farmers and Fisherfolk Association Inc. (AFFAI), he believes that mangroves are a lifeline for their community.

“Mangroves help us because they become breeding grounds for fish,鈥� Mr. Aveno said in Filipino, emphasizing the importance of mangroves to their daily catch.

Forester Thaddeus C. Martinez, Manager of the Natural Resources Management Department at Haribon Foundation, AFFAI鈥檚 partner environmental organization, told 大象传媒 that mangroves are a nature-based solution to climate change due to their ability to capture and store up to five times more carbon than terrestrial trees.

鈥淐arbon absorption in a mangrove forest is bigger. Why? Because it鈥檚 also in the soil, the mangrove area鈥檚 capacity to sequester carbon,鈥� Mr. Martinez said in mixed English and Filipino.

鈥淭here is more carbon stored in the soil. So, it鈥檚 a combination of the tree鈥檚 functions and the soil.鈥�

He added that they also serve as a habitat for various species of fish and crustaceans, which provide a source of livelihood for the community.

鈥淪o, if there are no mangroves, how will they multiply? That鈥檚 one of the basics, but sometimes, many people don鈥檛 appreciate this,鈥� Mr. Martinez said.

A 2012 report by The Environmental Law Alliance Worldwide (ELAW) shows that mangroves can significantly reduce the height of wind and swell waves by 13% to 66% over a distance of just 100 meters.

鈥淲hen a typhoon hits, instead of experiencing the full force of a Signal No. 3 storm warning鈥攚hich indicates destructive winds鈥攚e feel a weaker impact,鈥� Mr. Aveno said.

Human threat

Like other wildlife, Mr. Martinez said, mangroves are also not spared from threats caused by human activity.

Mangroves are cut down to be used for furniture and other household items, or as fuel wood.

Before the restoration efforts began, Mr. Aveno said that his fellow fisherfolk were cutting down mangrove trees to create pools for fish farming.

A report from the Climate Change Commission said that the Philippines has already lost a vast portion of its mangrove forest cover over the past century.

From an estimated 450,000 hectares in 1920, mangrove coverage declined to 317,500 hectares by 1990, and further decreased to 311,400 hectares in the most recent statistics.

It added that the conservation of the remaining mangrove forests is crucial, as they play a vital role in coastal protection, biodiversity conservation, and carbon sequestration.

To reverse decades of degradation, restoration efforts are now underway鈥攍ed by both local communities and corporate partners.

Manulife and Haribon鈥檚 mangrove restoration initiative

To help protect and expand the country鈥檚 mangrove forests, Manulife Philippines, the local arm of one of the world鈥檚 leading financial services providers, has launched a mangrove restoration initiative with the Haribon Foundation on May 30.

The expanded partnership aims to plant more than 15,000 mangrove seedlings across various sites in Quezon Province over the next three years.

Since 2022, they have also collaborated to plant over 21,250 native trees in the Sierra Madre mountain range.

This time, the effort has expanded to the seashore, underscoring Manulife鈥檚 Impact Agenda commitments to accelerate a sustainable future, as well as Haribon鈥檚 鈥楩orest for Life鈥� conservation campaign.

鈥淲e will be going into the back roads and doing the seed plantation ourselves. Hopefully, with these small actions, we can create some interest and willingness to take action on these very important issues in the wider community,鈥� Rahul Hora, President and Chief Executive Officer of Manulife Philippines, said during the launch event.

Meanwhile, Haribon Foundation鈥檚 Chief Operating Officer, Arlie Endonila, expressed her appreciation for the recent expanded partnership with Manulife.

“I鈥檝e read through Manulife鈥檚 Impact Agenda. It is truly amazing how it aligns with Haribon鈥檚 vision and mission, especially in ensuring not only a healthy environment but also the well-being of the communities,鈥� Ms. Endonila said.

After the launch, 大象传媒 and other media members were invited to see and be involved in the mangrove restoration project.

During that time, Haribon led the planting of over 100 seedlings in the area managed by the Alitas Farmers and Fisherfolk Association Inc. (AFFAI).

Ken Carlo Pe帽aflor, a forester from the Haribon Foundation, said that restoring a mangrove forest is a long and meticulous process.

Two mangrove species commonly found in the area each require specific tidal conditions to survive and flourish.

The Tall-stilt Mangrove, locally known as Bakauan-lalaki, is ideally planted in the inner or landward zones.

Meanwhile, the Asiatic Mangrove, or Loop-root Mangrove, locally called Bakauan-babae, thrives in the outer zones closer to the shore.

Mangrove restoration process

Mangrove life begins in a nursery, where seedlings are nurtured in a controlled environment for 6 to 8 months to ensure they are ready for planting.

Once ready, the seedlings are planted in areas that have been denuded or damaged due to human activity or strong typhoons.

Mangroves are expected to become partially viable, or begin capturing carbon, by the time they reach the sapling stage, which is around three years old.

Mangroves typically mature between 5 to 10 years, with an overall lifespan ranging from 20 to 100 years.

Mr. Martinez gladly said that mangroves planted at sites in Alitas have a high survival rate of 85%, sometimes even reaching 92%.

He expressed optimism that the initiative will be sustainable due to the support of the community, along with Manulife鈥檚 long-term commitment.

Mr. Hora assured that Manulife鈥檚 commitment to the restoration initiative is long-term and goes beyond just planting seeds.

The company will continue to support Haribon and the community until the mangroves become viable.

Mr. Hora added that they also plan to expand the initiative to other areas of the country.

鈥淭his is just the beginning. We want to continue working with Haribon,鈥� Mr. Hora said.

鈥淲e will sustain our efforts because we truly believe in what we are doing. So, yes, we will also continue to focus on other areas of the country.鈥�

For fisherman Mr. Aveno, initiatives like this are warmly welcomed by the community, as they could spark the growth of other industries, such as eco-tourism, which has already started and is providing new jobs now for the community.

Philippine Public Utility Vehicle (PUV) drivers can now take part in reducing the country鈥檚 greenhouse gas emissions while saving on fuel costs by using a patented fuel engine nozzle developed by a local startup.听

The Greentech Ecobooster, a fuel and greenhouse-efficient engine nozzle developed by the startup Greentech Ecobooster PH, can be easily installed in any gasoline-powered engine, including commonly used PUVs like tricycles and jeepneys.听

The nozzle is the brainchild of Rommel Bernardo, an inventor who aims to create innovative solutions to support those at the grassroots level.听

By simply replacing the regular nozzle of a gasoline-powered engine with Greentech Ecobooster, the air and fuel can now mix more evenly and efficiently due to its precisely engineered aerodynamic unidirectional 鈥榯urbulators.鈥�听

鈥�Pagdaan ng gasolina doon, nadidisperse siya鈥攏a-atomize siya automatically. And then, pagka-atomize niya, para siyang na-agitate; nagiging very mobile, so ang nangyayari, nagagamit na lahat ng fuel [As the fuel passes through, it gets dispersed and automatically atomized. Once it’s atomized, it’s like it becomes agitated鈥攊t turns very mobile, allowing all the fuel to be fully utilized],鈥� Rowena Bernardo, Greentech Ecobooster PH鈥檚 systems and communications officer and the inventor鈥檚 sister, said in a Zoom interview.听

Greentech鈥檚 Ecobooster significantly reduces the release of harmful greenhouse gases, Ms. Bernardo said, resulting in 98% less black smoke (carbon monoxide), 92% fewer fumes (hydrocarbons) due to a more balanced air-to-fuel ratio.听

A 2021 report from the National Emissions Inventory said that vehicle sources like cars, motorcycles, trucks, and buses, were responsible for 56% of the country鈥檚 air pollutant emissions听

These vehicle emissions are said to contribute to overall greenhouse gas emissions, which are one of the leading causes of the increasing global temperature.听

The country has committed to reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 70% by the year 2030.听

Apart from lowering emissions, Greentech Ecobooster can also improve engine fuel economy by nearly 32%, Ms. Bernardo said, potentially increasing PUV drivers鈥� daily take-home pay by about P50 to P120.听

Raymund Acedera, CEO of Greentech Ecobooster PH, explained that owning the nozzle is a more cost-effective choice, especially with fluctuating fuel prices that disproportionately impact PUV drivers.

鈥淓verybody’s like, ‘Yeah, clean air is important.’ But I can’t feed my family with clean air. So what are my options?,鈥� Mr. Acedera said in a mix of Filipino and English in the same Zoom call.听 听

鈥�Meron silang [they have] motivation to do something because there is something in it for them. And by so doing, we accelerate鈥攐r we are now able to do something that has traction,鈥� he added.听

Greentech Ecobooster is priced at only P1,900 as a complete plug-and-play package, with drivers able to recover the cost in just one month, Mr. Acedera said.听听

The startup aims to pilot the novel nozzle among 700 customers, mainly tricycle drivers.听

It also eyes partnerships with financial institutions to help public utility groups like the Tricycle Operators and Drivers’ Association (TODA) gain access to the technology through flexible payments.听听

Mr. Acedera also said that Greentech Ecobooster PH is considering talks with motorcycle manufacturers so the device can be pre-installed. He also calls for government support for its widespread adoption.听

GreenTech Ecobooster PH has also made it as one of the top three finalists in this year鈥檚 Shell LiveWIRE, a flagship enterprise development program of Shell Philippines. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

Experts echoed these sentiments during the launch of Breath Metro Manila, a coalition composed of Manila Observatory, Ateneo School of Medicine and Public Health (ASMPH), Ateneo Business Insights Laboratory Development (BUILD), and technology provider Clarity Movement.

鈥�(We have) to make the threat of air pollution more visible to the community and to our stakeholders,鈥� Dr. Annelle Raphayette Chua, head of the Air Quality and Climate Research Institute (ACRI), and focal for environmental quality for ASMPH said in her presentation.

鈥淪o one of the most powerful ways to do that is real-time air quality monitoring that鈥檚 accessible to all of our stakeholders and locally and nationally published for everyone鈥檚 perusal,鈥� she added.

Air pollution is one of the leading causes of premature mortality, responsible for 8.1 million deaths globally in 2021, just behind high blood pressure, Ms. Chua said, citing the United Nations Children鈥檚 Fund (UNICEF) report.

Constant exposure to air pollution can lead to serious health complications, accounting for 30% of deaths from lower respiratory infections, 28% from ischemic heart disease, and 48% of deaths related to chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

In Metro Manila, more than 13 million residents are at risk of being regularly exposed to pollution levels that exceed global safety standards.

Given these potential health risks, access to real-time air quality data becomes even more critical in helping residents to protect themselves, said Engr. Ethel Garcia, regional account manager for SEA and Oceania at Clarity Movement.

鈥淲eather is hyperlocal鈥� With air quality, that鈥檚 also the case. It may be at unhealthy levels in some parts of Quezon City, but maybe in Ayala Alabang, it’s not unhealthy 鈥� it’s good,鈥� Ms. Garcia told 大象传媒.

鈥淪o that kind of information, we wanted that to be released to the public鈥痓ecause it’s the public that is generally affected by that,鈥� she added.

One primary aim of Breath Metro Manila is the installation of advanced and region-wide integrated air monitoring systems, where the results can be accessed publicly through a website.

Ms. Garcia said that this will allow for more credible and cohesive results, enabling better identification of pollution sources and air quality levels in specific localities. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) on Tuesday showcased its ongoing artificial intelligence (AI) development projects aimed at improving the lives of Filipinos, particularly in the areas of disaster preparedness, health, and agriculture.

During the 2nd Advanced Science, Technology, and Innovation Convention (ASTICon), DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr. commended the agency鈥檚 Advanced Science and Technology Institute (DOST-ASTI) for its various flagship AI projects in recent years.

Among the developments are AI-equipped weather prediction systems, AI rovers for agriculture, and AI-powered cervical cancer screening.

鈥淔rom 2022 to 2025, DOST-ASTI has delivered flagship projects that powerfully demonstrate our research and innovation鈥檚 concern for the public good,鈥� Mr. Solidum said.

鈥淭hese efforts reflect a deliberate strategy to build technologies that not only push scientific boundaries but also solve real-world challenges,鈥� he added.

Among the pool of ongoing AI projects is the AI-powered Weather Forecasting for a Resilient Philippines (AI-4RP), a project in partnership with DOST and US-based AI meteorology company Atmo Inc., which started in 2023.

DOST Undersecretary for Research and Development Leah J. Buendia told reporters on the sidelines that the AI-4RP is still in the process of data input, which allows it to provide with accurate weather predictions covering up to 14 days.

鈥淔or example, if you鈥檙e flying two weeks from now, you just use that AI platform and you鈥檒l know the probability of rain, of a storm, or if the temperature will be high,鈥� Ms. Buendia said in a mix of English and Tagalog, adding that the agency also aim to make the platform accessible to the public.

Meanwhile, AI-4RP鈥檚 technical project III officer, Kent Roger C. Truita, told 大象传媒 that the improved potential 14-day forecast coverage would allow better disaster management compared to the five-day forecast under the current numerical weather prediction model.

鈥淚ts advantage is that it鈥檚 not compute-intensive. Once you have the model, you can input the data and it will output a forecast for 15 days,鈥� Mr. Truita said in both mixed English and Tagalog.

鈥淎nother thing is that it generates predictions quickly鈥攍et鈥檚 say, in less than 15 minutes, a forecast is already available,鈥� he added.

AI-4RP is now being reviewed by the state weather bureau to check its accuracy, Mr. Truita said. He added that the project shows great potential and could be fully implemented next year if it performs as well as the current forecasting model.

Other AI initiatives

Apart from AI-enabled weather forecasting, Ms. Buendia said that an AI-integrated system for pre-cervical cancer screening has also been developed.

The project, called the Cerv.ai Project, was launched in January in partnership with the advocacy group CerviQ (End Cervical Cancer Philippines Organization, Inc.) and DOST-ASTI.

鈥淲ith AI, it becomes even easier to detect cases early, making them easier to treat. I think it鈥檚 just a matter of feeding in more data to make the early warning system for cervical cancer more precise,鈥� Ms. Buendia said.

She added that the Cerv.ai is expected to be fully accessed by Filipina women before the end of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.鈥檚 term.

For agriculture, an AI-powered unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) called the Robot for Optimized and Autonomous Mission-Enhancement Responses (ROAMER) has also been developed.
Equipped with AI capabilities, the ROAMER can track, survey, and map banana farms, enabling precise pesticide application and helping reduce pest damage in plantations.

A memorandum of agreement was also signed during the event between DOST-CARAGA Region, the local government of Quezon City, and the advocacy group End of Cervical Cancer Philippines Inc.

Ms. Buendia said the MOA aims to formalize the joint effort of these stakeholders towards the country鈥檚 AI development, with more partners seeking to join. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

鈥淧assion ang kailangan [is what鈥檚 needed]. The local chief executive ay dapat maka-develop ng [should develop a] passion for this kind of job鈥� it鈥檚 not easy,鈥� Walfredo 鈥淎rman鈥� R. Dimaguila Jr., Mayor of Bi帽an City, Laguna, told 大象传媒 during the launch of Bi帽an EcoPark鈥檚 enhanced MRF on Thursday.鈥�听

Mr. Dimaguila鈥檚 statement was in response to 大象传媒鈥檚 question regarding the lack of materials recovery facilities (MRFs) in the country, despite the mandate under Section 32 of Republic Act 9003, which requires every barangay or cluster of barangays to establish their own MRFs.听

The country has only 11,625 MRFs serving 42,029 barangays, according to a 2023 report by the state think tank Philippine Institute for Development Studies (PIDS).听

Mr. Dimaguila said the low number of MRFs may be attributed to some LGUs鈥� preference for dumping their waste in landfills, as it is less labor-intensive.听

鈥淚t鈥檚 dirty. And if you see the full operation of our MRF, you might say, 鈥楾his is so difficult, it鈥檚 noisy,鈥欌�� Mr. Dimaguila said in both mixed English and Filipino.听听

鈥淪ome LGUs just want their garbage taken and done with. 鈥楯ust throw it away, you deal with it, we鈥檒l just pay.鈥� And just like that, the problem is considered solved,鈥� he added.听

However, there is a need for a shift in mindset, as plastic waste continues to clog waterways, particularly in Laguna de Bay, the country鈥檚 largest lake, Mr. Dimaguila said.鈥�

听

Launch of the enhanced Bi帽an EcoPark MRF听

To support the country鈥檚 plastic waste diversion initiative, the City of Bi帽an on Thursday unveiled the enhanced Bi帽an EcoPark Materials Recovery Facility (MRF).听

The initiative is a collaboration between the City Government, Evergreen Labs Philippines, PepsiCo Philippines, the Environmental Management Bureau (EMB) Region IV-A, and other government agencies.听

With the introduction of new technology and equipment, the facility, which was previously limited to producing plastic-infused bricks, can now recycle plastic waste into plastic-molded products such as lumbers and sheets.听

鈥淟umber, as usual, is a very good replacement for basic lumber used in construction and furniture. So, chairs (like school chairs) and tables, those are the typical uses of our lumber,鈥� Isidro Luis 鈥淐hino鈥� Borromeo, operations coordinator at ReForm Plastic, a social enterprise under EverGreen Labs Inc., told 大象传媒 in both mixed English and Filipino.听听

Mr. Borromeo said the Bi帽an EcoPark can process over a ton of most types of plastic waste each day, collected from different barangays across Laguna.听

Looking ahead, Mr. Dimaguila said the city government plans to expand the project to other areas in Bi帽an.听听

He added that he also intends to push for laws that will ensure the stricter integration of MRFs in all cities and municipalities, as he takes his oath as the newly elected representative of the city鈥檚 lone district. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

“We do engineered design of our houses to resist high loads coming from the winds. And actually, it has been tested numerous times over the years. Every year, our houses are subjected to strong winds from typhoons,” Niscal P. N. Pradhan, Head of the Base Innovation Center at Base Bahay Foundation Inc. told 大象传媒 on the sidelines of the 4th annual鈥� Bamboost Forum on Friday.鈥�听

Mr. Pradhan was referring to Base Bahay鈥檚 Cement Bamboo Frame Technology, which is based on the South American building system Bahareque Encementado鈥攁 construction method that uses a bamboo or wooden frame reinforced with wire mesh and covered in cement mortar.鈥�听

The system has been enhanced with European engineering principles and adapted to Philippine building traditions and environmental conditions.听

Mr. Pradhan said that Base Bahay’s bamboo house can withstand Category 5 typhoons and resist winds speeds ranging from 220km/h to 250 km/h.鈥�听

“What it means is the building will remain safe. People can stay inside, take shelter, and the building will not pose any hazard to the inhabitants. They can stay inside and remain protected and comfortable during the high winds,” Mr. Pradhan said.听

He added that with over 1,500 houses they鈥檝e built, which experience one to two typhoons every year, there have been no reports of damage so far.听

In the last quarter of 2024, the country was hit consecutively by three typhoons鈥擭ika, Ofel, and Pepito.听听

According to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), these storms caused damage to around 78,960 houses.听听

The destruction was recorded in Regions 1, 2, 3, CALABARZON, and the Caraga region, causing a need for social housing for displaced families.听听

Engr. Luis Felipe Lopez, General Manager of Base Bahay Foundation Inc., told reporters at the same event that Base Bahay鈥檚 houses are also ideal for social housing, as they are more affordable and environmentally friendly.听

“Because of a house like this, it is 30% lower in cost than a conventional house,” Mr. Lopez said.鈥�听

He added that carbon emissions can also be cut by 70% due to the reduced use of concrete and steel. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

The DILG said that under the memorandum circular, LGUs should take proactive measures against potential hydrometeorological hazards, such as flooding and landslides.听听

It added that these efforts should be anchored on the DILG鈥檚 Operation L!sto program, the agency鈥檚 flagship disaster preparedness initiative.听听

“LGUs are instructed to ensure the functionality of Emergency Operations Centers with adequate personnel and equipment, and to activate Local Incident Management Teams trained in the Incident Command System,” the DILG said.听听

The DILG also instructed LGUs to identify and prepare structurally sound evacuation centers equipped with essential facilities such as sanitation, medical aid, and designated areas for vulnerable groups.听

Revisions of contingency plans are also advised based on recent local hazard assessments, along with conducting drills to test evacuation procedures.听

The interior department also reiterated the strict implementation of no-build zones in high-risk areas and emphasized the continuity of emergency services during severe weather conditions.听听

Last week, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced the onset of the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat.听听

This was followed by a separate statement on Monday announcing the start of the rainy season, after five days of scattered to widespread rain brought by the Southwest Monsoon.听

Areas along the western section of the country are likely to be affected by the onset of the rainy season, Ana Liza S. Solis, PAGASA鈥檚 Assistant Weather Services Chief and Chief of the Climate Monitoring and Prediction Section, told 大象传媒.听

She added that precautionary measures should be taken by the public and local governments to prepare for the potential impacts of the rainy season, the Southwest Monsoon, and other weather events. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

In a phone interview, Provincial Information Officer Salvador J. Mendoza Jr. said 91 individuals, or 25 families, are currently taking shelter at the Irosin National Agency Center and Terminal (INACT) in Barangay San Pedro.听听

Meanwhile, 111 individuals, or 34 families, are staying at Galianosa National High School.听

This is following Bulusan’s phreatic eruption on Monday morning and a subsequent one on Tuesday evening at 7:43 pm.听

Mr. Mendoza said the provincial government has started distributing food packs and other necessities to the evacuees with the help of the Department of Social Welfare and Development.听

Following the eruption, videos of ashfall near the volcano circulated online, showing zero visibility on some roads in the province. 听

In a statement, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) said ashfall, considered significant at approximately one centimeter thick, was reported in the municipalities of Irosin, Juban, and Bulan.听

Mr. Mendoza said cleanup operations have been ongoing after the onset of the ashfall.听

鈥淪o pagkatapos po ng ashfall nga, agad-agad po tayong nagsagawa ng flushing along Maharlika Highway. Sakop ng tatlong barangay kung saan malaki po ang naitalang bagsak ng abo mula sa Bulkang Bulusan [After the ashfall, flushing of Maharlika Highway was immediately done. The heavy ashfall affected three barangays,” he furthered. 听

鈥淲ala na yung mga ash debris kung titingnan mo ngayong umaga [The ash debris is no longer there this morning].鈥�听

In a situational report from PHIVOLCS on Wednesday, one ash emission event lasting six minutes was reported on Tuesday.听

PHIVOLCS still recommends avoiding entry into the 4-kilometer permanent danger zone and reminds the public of the volcano鈥檚 potential for sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.听

Mr. Mendoza also reminded residents to continue cooperating with the authorities.听听

“Patuloy na makinig sa abiso ng mga otoridad. Huwag maging matigas ang ulo. Kung kailangang pumunta sa evacuation center, huwag nang magdalawang-isip [Continue monitoring advisories from the authorities. Don’t be stubborn. If you need to go to an evacuation center, don’t think twice about it],” he said. 听

Alert Level 1 remains in effect over Bulusan Volcano. – Edg Adrian A. Eva

In a Facebook advisory on Monday morning, Quezon City said that air quality in some areas had reached “very unhealthy” levels, with pollution concentrations ranging from 45.1 to 55 micrograms per cubic meter.

These areas include the northern parts of the city, such as Susano Road, Payatas Controlled Disposal Facility, Maligaya and Kaligayan Elementary Schools, and Lagro High School.听

At this level, the government advised residents to limit car use and outdoor activities, and to avoid areas with heavy traffic, especially those with heart and respiratory conditions听

Going to some lower areas of the city, “unhealthy” air quality levels were also reported, with pollution levels ranging from 35.1 to 45.0 micrograms per cubic meter.听

These included areas such as Novaliches Wet and Dry Market, Pearl Drive Footbridge, Payatas Super Health Center, Jose Rizal High School, FEU Diliman, Quirino Highway corner Mindanao Avenue, and Korphil Quezon City University.听

People with heart and respiratory conditions in these areas are advised not to go outside.听

Prior the advisory, at around 6:00 am on Monday, a smog-like atmosphere with a burning smell was reported in parts of Districts 2 and 5, Carl Oliver M. Luces, City鈥檚 Operations Center Manager said in a phone interview.听

Due to the unusually high unsafe air quality levels, Mr. Luces said they initially suspected the fire that broke out in Sitio Lukutan, Barangay San Isidro, Rodriguez, Rizal on Sunday and the fire in Barangay Commonwealth on Monday morning, both of which have already been put out.听听

鈥淧ero sa report na nakuha namin sa aming weather specialist, hindi po ganoon din kalakas ang hangin na na-experience ng Quezon City this morning for it to be conclusive proof na ito ay galing sa San Isidro. We are considering na mali po, but it’s possible na sa Commonwealth galing. Sa ibang district, ang experience nila ay it’s coming from San Isidro [Based on the report we received from our weather specialist, the wind experienced by Quezon City this morning was not strong enough to conclusively prove that it came from San Isidro. We are considering that it might be incorrect, but it鈥檚 possible that it came from Commonwealth. In other districts, their experience was that it was coming from San Isidro],鈥� Mr. Luces said. 听

Mr. Luces said the area affected by the fire that broke out in Barangay Commonwealth was relatively small, but the presence of chemicals made the fire appear larger.听

He added that they are still awaiting the final report from the City鈥檚 Bureau of Fire Protection to confirm the cause of the smog.听

Mr. Luces said it is still unclear how long the air quality hazard in the city will persist, but advised residents, especially those with comorbidities, to take necessary precautions.听听

鈥淧inapayuhan sila na magkaroon ng pag-iingat, lalo na ang mga may respiratory illness tulad ng hika. Iwasan munang lumabas ng bahay, at kung hindi maiwasan at kailangan umalis, magsuot ng face mask [They are advised to take precautions, especially those with respiratory illnesses like asthma. It is best to avoid going outside, but if it鈥檚 unavoidable and they need to leave, they should wear a face mask],鈥� Mr. Luces said.听 – Edg Adrian A. Eva

An eco-friendly-themed POP QC (Proudly Original Products of Quezon City) Fair was kicked off by the Quezon City government in Cubao on Friday, spotlighting micro and small businesses promoting sustainability.听

The three-day event, which ran from March 21 to 23 at Farmers Plaza in Quezon City, brought together ten local micro and small businesses promoting eco-friendly business practices. 听

“The aim of the program is to give micro and small businesses a platform for free market access to showcase their innovative and unique products,鈥� Paulo P. Borres, acting Division Head of the Business Resource Division of the Quezon City Small Business and Cooperatives Development and Promotions Office (QC-SBCDPO).听

鈥淚n observance din ito kasabay ng celebration ng Earth Hour [This is also in observance of the Earth Hour celebration].鈥澨�听

Mr. Borres said that throughout the fair, businesses will be given free space in the mall and access to talks on resource efficiency, basic composting, and sustainable energy and water use.听

For Naida M. Magno, owner of Naida鈥檚 Handicrafts, the POP QC Fair serves as the primary market for selling her handmade products made from plastic string straws.听

鈥淢ahalaga talaga ito kasi ito lang ang inaasahan namin, sa ganitong bazaar ni Mayor鈥� Kaya kapag nasa bahay kami, gawa lang kami nang gawa para may handa (kaming paninda), kung sakaling kami ay tawagan [This is really important because we mainly rely on the Mayor’s bazaar. So, when we’re at home, we just keep making products to have them ready in case we get called,鈥� Ms. Magno said in an interview.听听

She also said that this is her fifth time being invited, and she looks forward to more local trade fairs in the future.

Supporting POP QC fairs听

Apart from the POP QC Fair at Farmers Plaza, the QC-SBCDPO is also organizing similar trade fairs at Ayala Malls Manila Bay.听

Mr. Borres urges shoppers to support these initiatives as a way of supporting local MSMEs, which comprise 99% of registered businesses in Quezon City.听

鈥淏y supporting their small businesses. We also help our economy grow,鈥� Mr. Borres said听

“I am inviting everyone to support our small businesses here at our POP QC Sustainability Eco-Fair鈥� Let鈥檚 also support their sustainability efforts.鈥澨�听

While Mr. Borres did not disclose the target revenue for the ongoing fair, he noted that the previous Women鈥檚 Month-themed POP QC Fair, held from March 12 to 16 at the nearby Gateway Mall 1, generated nearly P500,000 in sales.听

A mosquito repellent made from forest products is being developed by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to support the country鈥檚 efforts against dengue.听

Residual byproducts from essential oil production, such as cinnamon bark, almaciga, and pili resin are being repurposed into incense cones and sticks as insect repellents by experts from the DOST-Forest Products Research and Development Institute (DOST-FPRDI).听听

These materials naturally possess insect-repelling properties, according to DOST.听听

Based on initial tests, including the “test cage method,” the DOST-FPRDI-formulated incense shows high potential for warding off mosquitoes and houseflies.听听

They also analyzed the chemical components responsible for repelling insects.听听

鈥淢ay mga nakita at na-detect na chemical components na responsible for repelling these insects like yung creosol and furfural鈥� na common na ginagamit for fungicide, pesticide, (and disinfectant), mga ganon [鈥淲e have identified and detected chemical components responsible for repelling these insects, such as creosol and furfural, which are commonly used as fungicides, pesticides, and disinfectants,鈥� Ms. Florena B. Samiano, leader of the Institute鈥檚 Flavors and Fragrances from the Forest Technology Program (F3TP) said in an interview.听听

Also, initial feedback indicated that the smoke produced by the incense is non-irritating to the eyes and nose and emits a pleasant smell, Ms. Samiano added.听听

While initial studies show the DOST-FPRDI-formulated incense to be effective, further testing on sensory acceptability and industry-scale application are still recommended, Ms. Samiano said.听听

鈥淯sok pa lang yung tinest namin. It鈥檚 still recommended for further laboratory testing. Para mas safety na i-ano (gamitin) ng tao [We have only tested the smoke so far. Further laboratory testing is still recommended to ensure its safety for human use],鈥� she furthered.听听

Rico J. Cabangon, DOST-FPRDI Director said that the DOST continues to harness the potential of wood and non-wood products to address the country鈥檚 most pressing issues like dengue.听听

鈥淭he Philippine forests are replete with natural resources that can help combat dengue and other viral diseases,鈥� Mr. Cabangon said in a statement.听听

As of February 21, the Department of Health (DOH) recorded 15,134 dengue cases from January 19 to February 15. This brings the total number of cases for the year to 43,732, a 56% increase from the same period last year.

Piloting the technology听

The DOST-FPRDI-formulated incense is set for pilot testing with industry partners in the second to third quarter of the year, Ms. Samiano said.听听

They plan to introduce the technology in areas with essential oil extraction facilities, potentially in Zambales, Bacolod, and Bicol.听听听

Ms. Samiano said that sharing this technology would help partners repurpose a big chunk of raw materials left after the extraction process, which would otherwise go to waste.听听