43 LGUs in Zamboanga Peninsula Adopt PHIVOLCS Earthquake Assessment System

Zamboanga City, September 23, 2025 — Forty-three local government units (LGUs) in Region IX have signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Department of Science and Technology Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) to adopt the Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System (REDAS).

The ceremonial signing took place during the opening of the 2025 Regional Science, Technology and Innovation Week (RSTW) for Region IX, held alongside the Handa Pilipinas: Innovations in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Exposition at Palacio del Sur, Zamboanga City.

DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum Jr., PHIVOLCS Director Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol, and DOST-IX OIC Regional Director Jennifer A. Pidor led the signing with mayors and representatives of the participating LGUs.

REDAS is a PHIVOLCS-developed software that enables LGUs to simulate earthquake scenarios, map hazards, and assess potential impacts. The system aims to strengthen local preparedness, support emergency response planning, and enhance disaster risk reduction strategies.

With this milestone, Region IX LGUs are expected to improve resilience and strengthen community safety against earthquake risks.

Source | DOST Regional Office IX

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