The DSWD Disaster Response Management Bureau (DRMB), in collaboration with DSWD Field Office (FO) XII and the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), kicked off a five-day Orientation on Remote Sensing Applications for Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) in General Santos City, South Cotabato, on October 22, 2024. The training was designed to equip Geographic Information System (GIS) Specialists and Analysts with advanced knowledge and skills to enhance disaster monitoring and risk assessment using remote sensing technology.
In her Opening Remarks, Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe of the Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) underscored the critical role of innovative tools like remote sensing in addressing the growing challenges of climate change and natural disasters in the Philippines. She encouraged the participants to fully engage in the learning experience, emphasizing the importance of acquiring the skills necessary to improve the effectiveness of disaster response efforts. DSWD FO XII Regional Director Loreto Jr. V. Cabaya also expressed his gratitude to the bureau for organizing the training and commended the participants for their dedication to continuous learning, stressing the importance of capacitating disaster response personnel to better serve communities during emergencies. -end-
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), through its Disaster Response Management Bureau (DRMB), successfully conducted a workshop on Geographic Information System (GIS) Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) in Baguio City from September 9-13, 2024. The workshop gathered GIS teams from various regional Field Offices and divisions to develop a comprehensive GIS manual and SOP, aimed at improving disaster information and data management across the agency.
The event focused on creating standardized guidelines for GIS operations within both the Central Office and Field Offices. Key areas covered included data inventory, sourcing, gap identification, and format regulation, as well as setting standards for GIS datasets, mapping, and file naming conventions. Additionally, the workshop established protocols for data sharing to ensure efficient and consistent disaster data management. The event was closed by Asec. Irene Dumlao from the Office of the Secretary for Concern and DRMG, who encouraged participants to remain dedicated to enhancing disaster response efforts and achieving the DSWD’s mission of providing better service to affected communities. -end-
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) recently organized a five-day training in Cebu City from July 22 to 26, 2024, aimed at enhancing the disaster response skills of its personnel. The training focused on the use of the GIS Online Mapping Platform and the Enhanced PAHR Tool, which help the department improve disaster monitoring, data management, and predictive analytics. Through hands-on sessions and simulations, participants learned how to visualize disaster-related data, conduct Pre-Disaster Risk Assessments (PDRA), and utilize these tools to anticipate the impacts of tropical cyclones and other weather disturbances.
Aligned with the B-SPARED project, the training also emphasized the integration of Anticipatory Action (AA), enabling DSWD to take proactive measures to reduce the impact of disasters before they occur. This capacity-building effort is part of DSWD's broader strategy to strengthen its disaster management systems and ensure more effective, timely humanitarian responses. By equipping personnel with advanced tools and skills, DSWD continues to enhance its ability to protect vulnerable communities during emergencies. -end-
On June 19 to June 21, 2024, the Field Office 7 GIS Specialist participated in the Geographic Information Systems (GIS) Local Users Activity at Ortigas Center, Pasig City. The event focused on the fundamentals of GIS and provided hands-on training with ArcGIS Pro, a powerful software tool for spatial data analysis and mapping. Participants gained practical experience in using ArcGIS Pro’s advanced features, including spatial analysis, data management, and cartography. Through interactive sessions, attendees learned how GIS can be used to solve complex geographical problems in various sectors, such as urban planning, disaster management, environmental conservation, and public health.
For the Field Office 7 GIS Specialist, this training provided an invaluable opportunity to enhance GIS skills and stay current with the latest industry developments. The hands-on experience with ArcGIS Pro and exposure to real-world GIS applications directly aligned with their role, enabling them to apply these new insights to improve spatial data analysis and decision-making processes within the organization. Additionally, the event facilitated networking with other GIS professionals, fostering collaboration and knowledge-sharing that will contribute to more effective use of GIS technologies in addressing regional and national challenges. -end-
The Caraga Center for Geo-informatics (CCGeo), in partnership with the Department of Geodetic Engineering, conducted a specialized training on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and Remote Sensing for Disaster Management from October 14-18, 2023 at Kawa Resort, General Luna, Siargao Island, Surigao del Norte. The workshop was tailored specifically for personnel from the DSWD Disaster Response Management Bureau (DRMB) and DSWD Field Offices GIS Specialist, aiming to enhance their skills in utilizing geospatial data for more effective disaster response and risk management.
Under the expert guidance of Engr. Arturo G. Cauba Jr., Chairperson of the Department of Geodetic Engineering and CCGeo-affiliated faculty, participants were introduced to key concepts in GIS and remote sensing. Engr. Eric Dave D. Doria assisted with hands-on exercises, helping participants apply theoretical knowledge in practical scenarios. The training emphasized the critical role of spatial information in disaster risk management, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of how GIS and remote sensing technologies can enhance disaster preparedness, response, and mitigation strategies. This initiative aims to build the capacity of DSWD personnel to better integrate geospatial tools into their disaster management efforts. -end-