The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has released the Disaster Narratives for Experiential Knowledge-based Science Communication (DANAS) Sourcebook to strengthen disaster preparedness across the Philippines. Written in local languages—Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Tagalog, Kapampangan, and Ilokano—the sourcebooks can equip teachers and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) officers with practical tools for improving community resilience.
The DANAS Sourcebook, created by DOST-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) in partnership with Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University, University of the Philippines-Visayas, and DOST-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development, combines scientific data with community experiences.
The sourcebook includes firsthand accounts from individuals who survived natural disasters, such as the 1983 Laoag earthquake, the 1990 Luzon earthquake, the 2019 Central Luzon earthquake, and the 2022 Northwestern Luzon earthquake. These narratives highlight the importance of preparedness through the lens of local experiences.
DANAS Component Leader Lucille Rose Sanico explained, “The project aims to bridge the language gap in communicating science to local communities. It blends personal stories, experiences, and descriptions with key technical terms to help residents better plan for disasters.”
Charmaine Villamil, Senior Science Research Specialist at DOST-PHIVOLCS, revealed that the Philippines is home to over 300 volcanoes, with 24 classified as active and 27 as potentially active. Ten key volcanoes, including Taal, Mayon, and Mt. Pinatubo, are closely monitored due to their potential risks.
Jeffrey S. Perez, Supervising Science Research Specialist at DOST-PHIVOLCS, added that the Philippines experiences an average of 30 earthquakes daily, underlining the critical need for tools like the DANAS Sourcebook.
This initiative reflects the importance of combining scientific data with cultural understanding to make disaster preparedness more accessible.
Stay informed about initiatives empowering communities with practical disaster readiness tools. Visit Good Balita to learn more about local initiatives.
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