Catanduanes State University (CatSU) Center for Island Climate Change Solutions (CICCS) is spearheading an international initiative aimed at enhancing the resilience of coastal communities in the Philippines. The project, titled “Contextualizing Disaster Resilience in Archipelagic Environments: The Case of Catanduanes, Eastern Philippine Seaboard (C2C),” has secured funding from the UK-based global safety charity, Lloyd’s Register Foundation. This significant achievement is led by Engr. Dexter Toyado, Director of CICCS, Mr. Aljon Francis Koji Elegado, Director of the Abaca Technology Innovation Center, and Dr. Deborah Tangunan, a Department of Science and Technology 2024 Balik Scientist Awardee who is currently based in the University College London Department of Earth Sciences.The C2C project, to start this October, is part of the Lloyd’s Register Foundation Turning the World Risk Poll into Action program, which funds initiatives that translate findings from the 2021 and 2023 World Risk Polls into tangible action to improve the safety of people around the world. These polls highlighted the vulnerability of communities in Southeast Asia, particularly in the Philippines, to natural hazards. The project’s primary focus is on Catanduanes, an island province in the Philippines that is highly susceptible to climate-induced disasters such as typhoons and floods.The Philippines, despite facing frequent disasters, displayed high resilience in the 2021 World Risk Poll. The C2C project will build on this by focusing on Catanduanes, an island highly susceptible to typhoons and other climate-related hazards. The project will compare existing World Risk Poll data with new data generated through the initiative, aiming to understand how local resilience is shaped by factors such as geography, livelihood, and gender dynamics. This approach will play a crucial role in enhancing local and national government initiatives, enabling evidence-based decision-making for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery.One of the key aspects of the C2C project is the integration of existing data from the 2021 and 2023 World Risk Polls with new data generated through the project. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the specific vulnerabilities and resilience factors in Catanduanes. The project’s approach includes gathering resilience data from communities within Catanduanes, particularly focusing on the abaca and fishing industries, which are vital to the local economy. Additionally, risk maps will be developed for the region, incorporating local predictors of resilience alongside geologic hazard data such as landslides, flooding, and storm surges.The project will also emphasize the importance of training and capacity building in disaster risk management. By integrating local and indigenous resilience practices, the project aims to enhance the community’s understanding and perception of risk. Furthermore, the project’s outcomes will be shared with a broader audience through strategic communication and engagement efforts. This includes open-access publications, presentations at scientific conferences, and tailored outreach programs that will engage stakeholders at various levels.The C2C project is designed to serve as a testbed for disaster resilience strategies that can be adapted and implemented in other regions with similar geographic challenges. By focusing on multi-hazard preparedness, the project is expected to make a significant contribution to disaster risk reduction not only in Catanduanes but also in other vulnerable areas within the Philippines and beyond.The outcomes of the C2C project will be translated into actionable policy recommendations in collaboration with local government units and non-governmental organizations. These efforts aim to improve disaster preparedness by developing more effective strategies, early warning systems, and evacuation processes, ultimately reducing disaster-related fatalities and injuries. In addition, the project seeks to build safer communities by improving infrastructure resilience, protecting homes, businesses, and critical infrastructure from the devastating effects of climate-induced disasters.This project’s significance extends beyond the borders of the Philippines. The findings and methodologies developed through the C2C initiative will provide valuable insights that can be applied to disaster resilience efforts in other vulnerable islands and regions worldwide. By addressing the unique challenges of archipelagic environments, the project aligns with the charitable mission of Lloyd’s Register Foundation, which is dedicated to engineering a safer world through innovative and evidence-based interventions.The 2021 and 2023 World Risk Polls emphasize the urgent need for multi-hazard preparedness, particularly in regions like Southeast Asia, where communities face complex and interrelated risks. By focusing on these high-risk environments, like Catanduanes, the C2C project is poised to make a meaningful contribution to global disaster risk reduction efforts. The project’s success will not only benefit the communities of Catanduanes but will also offer a model for building resilience in similar regions around the world.Nancy Hey, Director of Evidence and Insight at Lloyd’s Register Foundation, said: “The World Risk Poll is the first global study of worry about, and harm from, risks to people’s safety. It provides unique insights into safety challenges worldwide, particularly in areas where little or no official data exists. Through initiatives like the C2C project, Catanduanes State University is contributing to the Foundation’s efforts to foster safer and more resilient communities across the world.”
To enhance productivity and efficiency in the workplace by minimizing accidents and injuries, Catanduanes State University (CatSU) conducted a one-day hazard awareness and risk reduction seminar for its Buildings and Grounds Services (BGS) personnel on July 26.The learning activity, which aligns with the University’s commitment to maintaining a safe and secure community, was graced by CatSU President Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza who underscored the significance of promoting safety-friendly policies and procedures within the institution.“Importante ang paghururon na alog kaini ta an buhay dae napapalitan,” he said.Meanwhile, in his message, Vice President for Administrative and Financial Affairs Engr. Benjamin Hannycel T. Nuyda emphasized that “safety is not just a top priority but a core value that ensures the success of an operation.”Serving as one of the resource speakers, College of Engineering and Architecture Dean, Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, talked about occupational safety and health at work.Held at the Extension Services training Hall, the seminar covered several topics, including the importance of wearing personal protective equipment, electrical and fire safety, power tools safety, and conducting safety inspections.The university aims to instill a culture of safety among its employees, ultimately contributing to a safer work environment for all.
The Catanduanes State University (CatSU) College of Engineering and Architecture (CEA), in collaboration with the university's Center for Island and Climate Change Solutions (CICCS), recently held its inaugural Disaster and Emergency Preparedness Seminar and Exhibit on May 12, 2023, at the CatSU Auditorium.Under the guidance of Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, Director of CICCS and CEA Faculty, the event aimed to equip participants with the necessary skills in disaster and emergency communications systems while enhancing their knowledge of the latest alternative communication technologies.Renowned experts in the field of disaster and emergency communications systems were invited to share their expertise as resource speakers during the seminar. Among them were representatives from the Philippine Space Agency (PhilSA), Rapid Emergency Telecoms Team, Philippine Science High School-BRC, and other esteemed organizations.In addition to the informative seminar, the exhibit provided an opportunity for CEA students to showcase their technological innovations and projects in communication and disaster preparedness. The exhibit also featured projects from CICCS, DICT Region V-Catanduanes, Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO), Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), and various other contributors.The program aligns with the visionary goals of CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, who aims to establish CatSU as a National University for Disaster Response and Climate Change Adaptation. The university is committed to implementing data-driven and technology-oriented programs and policies to address these critical issues. The successful Disaster and Emergency Preparedness Seminar and Exhibit signify CatSU's dedication to promoting preparedness, resilience, and innovative solutions in the face of disasters and emergencies. #RJI
In celebration of Earth Month and Earth Day, with the theme "Invest in Our Planet", the CatSU-College of Science in collaboration with Cooperative for Assistance and Relief Everywhere (CARE) Philippines, TJORI Foundation, CatSU Extension Services, and CatSU Center for Island Climate Change Solutions organized a series of tree planting activities to nurture the environment of the island province.The tree planting series was kicked off on April 21, 2023, in Barangay Buenavista, Bato, Catanduanes, and was actively participated by a number of CatSU Department Chairpersons, faculty members, and staff, as well as partner-volunteers such as the Brgy. Buenavista Women Volunteers, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Office (MDRRMO), and Local Government Unit of Bato, and other officials.As part of the University's Rehabilitation and Disaster Preparedness program, the organizers came up with the series of tree planting events to raise awareness about environmental conservation and take concrete actions to protect the planet. The organizers worked with partner organizations to secure necessary permits, including the determination of the number and types of trees to be planted.Prior to the event, the organizers prepared the site by clearing any debris, tilling the soil, and marking the areas where the trees will be planted. CatSU officials provided a brief orientation, explaining the importance of tree planting, demonstrating proper planting techniques, and emphasizing the ecological benefits.Participants worked together to dig holes, carefully plant the saplings, and backfill the soil around the roots, ensuring that the trees are planted at the appropriate depth and properly supported with soil to encourage healthy growth.CatSU President, Dr. Patrick Alain T. Azanza, who is also actively involved as Adviser of the Catanduanes Clean and Green Movement, commended the efforts of the CatSU community in this undertaking."We need to protect the environment while pursuing economic development for our country," the President said.CatSU is known for its environment-friendly practices such as tree planting, coastal clean-up, waste segregation, and other allied activities, being a green University. The University extended its gratitude to the benefactor of narra seedlings who earlier donated the seedlings to Dr. Azanza. The University aims to continue advocating for environment-friendly practices to protect and nurture the environment. #CIV
In pursuit of the four component programs established by the Catanduanes State University Center for Island Climate Change Solutions (CatSU-CICCS), the center, led by its director Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, conducted a seminar workshop titled "Hydro-Meteorological Hazards and Forecasting Under Climate Change" at the university auditorium on April 2, 2023. The seminar workshop aimed not only to educate participants, including faculty, teachers, and students but also to train them to incorporate climate change adaptation and mitigation into their teaching curriculum. This approach will help raise awareness and encourage action toward reducing the impact of climate change in the community. Additionally, the seminar sought to provide information about hazards resulting from hydro-meteorological events and waste management strategies. Mr. John Ariel T. Rojas, an ABS-CBN Weather Forecaster and one of the resource speakers, shared his extensive knowledge in Weather System and hydro-meteorological hazards. His expertise in the field of hydro-meteorological forecasting clearly differentiated weather, season, and climate. Furthermore, his discussion touched on specific factors affecting a place or region's climate while describing the essential characteristics of each thermal zone. Most importantly, Mr. Rojas shared his understanding of the physics, chemistry, energy, and water refluxes of the atmosphere and their coupling with the earth's surface environmental parameters. "It is always important to stay up-to-date with the latest information on weather and climate change, especially for those who live in areas prone to hydro-meteorological hazards. I am glad to be a part of this significant event that was a collaboration between CatSU and its officials, and the local government leaders. Our aim is to always be a catalyst for crucial knowledge and information to the people and community that we serve," Mr. Rojas shared. Mr. Jun Pantino, PAGASA-Catanduanes Chief, along with Mr. Mike Padua, founder of Typhoon2000.com, also served as resource speakers and discussed Meteorological Observations in Monitoring and Predicting Weather and Typhoon Forecasting, respectively. Other notable speakers included Dr. Jimmy T. Masagca, Dr. Deborah N. Tangunan, a faculty member from Cardiff University, United Kingdom, and Carpel Environment Corp, who tackled topics on Philippine Climate Change Action, Policies and Plans, Evaluation of Impacts of Climate Change on the Physical, Chemical, and Biological Landscapes, and Climate Change & Waste Management Strategies, respectively. Provincial Vice Governor Peter "Boss Te" C. Cua was the special guest during the event, and in his inspirational message, he commended the university and its leaders, as well as the local government unit (LGU) players, for a job well done. LGU officials and staff, along with the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office personnel, were in attendance. The whole day activity was made possible in coordination with Hon. Jose "Bong" Joson Teves Jr., TGP Partylist. #CIV
As the need for timely and relevant weather and climate information continues to grow, Engr. Dexter M. Toyado, the Director of Catanduanes State University's Center for Island Climate Change Solutions (CICCS), attended the Philippine Meteorological Society (PMS) Annual Convention.The event, organized in cooperation with the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) and in partnership with DOST-PCIEERD, took place on March 20-21, 2023, at the Camelot Hotel in Quezon City.PMS is a unique organization of meteorologists and related professionals, providing opportunities and venues for members and allied researchers to share recent advances and applications of meteorology and its allied sciences in the Philippines.Engr. Toyado stressed the importance of the university's involvement and participation in such national organization initiatives, noting that they serve as essential support for the university's climate change adaptation programs and projects."I am more than grateful to have been invited to this year's convention, where the themes and prepared sessions offered a wealth of relevant ideas that are truly impactful and useful, especially given our President, Dr. Azanza's vision of making the university a National Center for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management," Engr. Toyado shared.The event aimed to gather and promote innovative research in the field of meteorology and allied sciences, contributing to the development of the National Meteorological and Hydrological Sciences.This year's convention was themed "PMS 2023: Recent Advances and Applications of Meteorology and its Allied Sciences" and covered six major thematic areas: weather, climate, water, climate and weather extremes, applications of meteorology, and other related fields.Engr. Toyado was joined by fellow Catandunganon, Mr. Rojas from Bato, who is also the resident meteorologist of ABS-CBN. #CVecilles
