The Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS) and the De La Salle University (DLSU), in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), monitored by the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) officially launched the 3D Philippines Information System last November 15, 2022, at the Novotel Manila Araneta City in Quezon City.
The 3D Philippines Information System is the country’s first centralized database system for 3D visualization and analysis of surface and subsurface information. It is a web-based application developed under the DOST-GIA-funded 3D Philippines program to provide researchers from National Government Agencies, Local Government Units, and other sectors an easy-to-use and accessible platform for storing and facilitating hazards and risk assessment of surface and subsurface information. The application complements the GeoRiskPH in the management and analysis of scientific data to aid research, planning, and disaster risk reduction initiatives.
“This event highlights the importance of working together in building a more resilient Philippines by coordinated efforts towards maximizing the use of science and technology in mitigating the effects of climate change,” according to Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, Executive Director of DOST-PCIEERD. Alongside his speech, Dr. Paringit presented the roadmaps of their agency’s support in the innovation of technologies for disaster risk reduction & construction sectors and encouraged stakeholders to collaborate in the development of programs like the 3D Philippines. It was followed by a message from Dr. Jonathan R. Dungca, the Vice President of DLSU, Dean for Laguna Campus, and GEMMMS Project Leader, wherein he emphasized the significance of digitized maps and having a centralized repository of data for a better knowledge of the subsoil characteristic of a certain area. According to him, this is because “In the construction of every structure, it is important that the characteristic of soil in the site is established. This will serve as a basis of the type of foundation suitable for the structure and the type of soil improvement that is appropriate to mitigate any possible hazards”. Dr. Dungca added that the target output of this initiative will serve as a good overview of the soil profile which is beneficial for engineers since it can serve as a reference location for the borehole they need to investigate. In addition, it assists in the borehole depth decision-making which subsequently leads to more cost-efficient soil exploration.
Moreover, Dr. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, advocated the optimization of 3D Philippines’ benefits and gains in his keynote message. He stated that utilizing the application can assist the government in proactively identifying and selecting suitable project sites which consequently saves time & resources, and increases the ease of doing business in the Philippines. Furthermore, Sec. Solidum emphasized the importance of having a science-based disaster imagination for disaster preparedness, response, and recovery. He firmly believed that “if the communities in the Philippines can internalize the impacts of disasters on themselves, on their families, and livelihood, then they can be more convinced to prepare appropriately and efficiently.”
The speeches were followed thereafter by a formal introduction and walkthrough of the 3D Philippines Program and 3D Philippines Information System. Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol, Officer-in-Charge of DOST-PHIVOLCS, presented various 3D models and risk cases on the use of borehole data in Metro Manila but more importantly placed great emphasis on the Program’s aim which is to develop and institutionalize standard codes for surface and subsurface information, explore 3D visualization and analysis, and establish a 3D Visualization Facility where engineers and planners can visualize and analyze data. To accomplish this, Ms. Mabelline T. Cahulogan, Supervising Science Research Specialist from DOST-PHIVOLCS and 3DPH Program & 3D Earth Risk Project Leader, stated the need for a central database system and a platform where engineers, researchers, government agencies, and LGUs can contribute data and allow access to borehole information that can also be used for research. This necessity called for the development of the 3D Philippines Information System. Ms. Cahulogan also encouraged the optimization of the 3DPH InfoSys as she presented the web-based application’s features and functionalities and requested support for this initiative and emphasized that the “3D Philippines, is our ally to digital transformation”.
A press conference was conducted shortly to provide the media a venue for their queries and follow-ups with the following panelists: Sec. Renato U. Solidum, Jr., Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol, Engr. Juliana D. Vergara, OIC Assistant Director of the Department of Public Works and Highways-Bureau of Research and Standards (DPWH-BRS), Dr. Jonathan R. Dungca, and Ms. Mabelline T. Cahulogan.
The momentous occasion successfully concluded with closing remarks from Engr. Juliana D. Vergara. She commended the Department of Science and Technology for their tireless pursuit for advancement and expressed their utmost support towards advancing the engineering practice and the disaster risk reduction works. Lastly, Engr. Vergara encouraged everyone to participate, support, and collaborate towards the success of the 3D Philippines Information System. Collectively, the agencies strive to continually produce programs and develop technologies that push for advanced data-gathering for comprehensive preparedness & mitigation plans and encourage collaborations in sustaining the 3D Philippines Information System for the future building of safer structures for safer communities.
