Empowering Communities: DOST Launches Multilingual Sourcebook for Disaster Preparedness

In a significant stride toward improving disaster preparedness, the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has unveiled the Disaster Narratives for Experiential Knowledge-based Science Communication (DANAS) Sourcebook. Targeted at residents of Northern and Central Luzon, this multilingual initiative aims to empower communities against the threats of earthquakes and tsunamis. The DANAS Sourcebook, primarily written in the Ilokano language, is the result of a collaborative effort involving the DOST-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University in La Union, and the University of the Philippines-Visayas. This collaboration underscores the importance of local languages in disseminating vital information. The sourcebook is a rich compilation of personal narratives from individuals who have lived through devastating earthquakes, tsunamis, and volcanic eruptions. By documenting these firsthand accounts, the DOST hopes to enhance awareness of disaster risks and promote a culture of preparedness in vulnerable areas. Charmaine Villamil, a senior science research specialist at DOST-PHIVOLCS, emphasized the geographical context of the Philippines, which is home to over 300 named and unnamed volcanoes, with 24 classified as active. The monitoring of ten significant volcanoes, including the infamous Mt. Pinatubo and Taal, highlights the urgent need for effective communication strategies to keep communities informed. Villamil articulated the essential role of the DANAS Sourcebook, stating, “More than just tools, the DANAS Ilokano Sourcebooks serve as bridges connecting experts with the experiences of various communities, linking technical knowledge with cultural understanding.” This approach not only delivers scientific data but also resonates with local customs and experiences, making the information more relatable and impactful. Teresita Tabaog, director of DOST Regional Office I, further affirmed the project's mission to improve accessibility to disaster preparedness information. She noted that the DANAS initiative blends the rigor of scientific research with the realities faced by communities, ultimately fostering a better understanding of disaster risks and response strategies. The sourcebook also draws attention to the frequency of seismic activity in the Philippines, which experiences an average of 30 earthquakes each day. Jeffrey S. Perez, a supervising science research specialist at DOST-PHIVOLCS, highlighted significant historical earthquakes detailed in the book, including the 1983 magnitude 6.5 Laoag earthquake and the devastating 1990 magnitude 7.8 Luzon earthquake. These narratives serve to remind readers of the potential threats and the importance of being prepared. Lucille Rose Sanico, the DANAS component leader, emphasized the necessity of bridging the language gap in disaster communication. By retaining key technical terms alongside personal experiences, the sourcebook aims to inform and educate residents about disaster planning in a language they understand. In addition to the Ilokano version, the DOST has ensured that the sourcebooks are available in other local dialects, including Cebuano, Hiligaynon, Tagalog, and Kapampangan, making this crucial information accessible to a broader audience. These resources are not only aimed at the general public but also serve as valuable references for educators and Disaster Risk Reduction (DRR) officers, enhancing the overall capacity for disaster management in the Philippines. As the nation continues to grapple with the realities of natural disasters, the launch of the DANAS Sourcebook signifies a proactive approach to equip communities with the knowledge and resources necessary to navigate the challenges posed by earthquakes and tsunamis. Through community engagement and localized communication, the DOST is paving the way for a more resilient future.