Local Inventors Feature Tech-Innovations for Disaster Preparedness and Response

Author: Shaira P. Rapisora Published: Nov. 10, 2022

Following the conduct of the 4th quarter Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill, a special forum on the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Capabilities and Innovation was also held during the second day of the HANDA Pilipinas Expo on 10 November 2022.

Various technologies deemed essential for disaster preparedness and quick response were introduced. Some of these technologies include the a) Automatic Transfer Switch (ATS), a hybrid silent generator which provides electricity in times of emergency, b) Monitoring Panel System for smoke detection of buildings and residential spaces, and c) Highmax Turbo Power Simulator (HTPS), a device that boosts car fuel consumption.

Moreover, an innovation called Fire Trike Fire Fighting Mobile was created to easily reach a specific area of fire incident especially within the narrow streets of a community.

Meanwhile, DOST Research and Development Institutes also introduced innovations such as the Radiation-Engineered Hemostatic Agents as Life-saving (RE-HEAL) Devices by the DOST-Philippine Nuclear Research Institute which are used to control and manage bleeding in emergency settings.

DOST-Philippine Textile Research Institute, on the other hand, came up with the Philippines’ first and only Geotextile Testing Facility which conducts tests on geosynthetics and geotextiles which provide solutions on slope protection and stabilization, erosion control, flood control, drainage system improvement, and road reinforcement and rehabilitation.

Also, DOST-PTRI’s Medical Textile Testing Center was launched to enhance the preparedness and ease the burden of local manufacturers, traders, consumers, and the government in conducting tests such as Synthetic Blood Penetration Test for Face Masks and Protective Clothing, Differential Pressure Test, Hydrostatic Pressure Test, Impact Penetration Test, Water Repellency Test, and Respirator Fit Test during the pandemic.

These locally developed inventions play a huge part in the growing efforts of building a better, well-prepared, and resilient Filipino community through science, technology, and innovation.