In a resounding success, ARISE Philippines, a member of ARISE, the Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies, is a network of private sector entities led by the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR), marked a significant achievement with the exceptional execution of a groundbreaking webinar titled "Unraveling the Synergy of Space Science in Disaster Resilience Technology and Innovations." Held on July 28, 2023, this momentous event brought together leaders, partners, and participants from various sectors, locally and globally.
Unveiling the Space-Resilience Nexus
Timed perfectly to coincide with the National Disaster Resilience Month, the webinar embarked on a voyage to explore the vital intersection of space science and technology in strengthening disaster resilience. This digital congregation drew representation from an extensive spectrum of public and private sectors, uniting entities like the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), the Philippine Space Agency, the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), WIN DRR, Kiu Global, SM Prime Holdings, Inc., Spacebase Limited New Zealand, and prestigious academic institutions such as Asia Pacific College.
Setting the Course
The event's inaugural address was graced by Vice Admiral Alexander P. Pama, the Co-Chair of ARISE Philippines. In a thought-provoking introduction, he underscored the pioneering spirit that accompanies the application of Space Science and Technology to the realm of Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) and climate change adaptation. Following this, the stage was spelled out by inspirational messages delivered by Undersecretary Ariel F. Nepomuceno, the esteemed Executive Director of NDRRMC, and Dr. Joel Joseph Marciano, Jr., the visionary Director General of the Philippine Space Agency. These messages resonated with the symphonic importance of collaborative endeavors in shaping resilience.
Keynote Insights
A shining highlight of the event, the keynote address was eloquently presented by the Honorable Renato U. Solidum Jr., Secretary of the Department of Science and Technology, and Vice Chair of NDRRMC for Prevention and Mitigation. Secretary Solidum unveiled the vast potential of space-based technologies in bolstering disaster resilience. He masterfully introduced three foundational elements - information, governance, and strategic planning and foresight - as the bedrock for establishing synergies and effective interventions.
Informative Sessions
Esteemed partners and industry experts took the reins during the informative sessions. Director Ariel C. Blanco from the Philippine Space Agency and the visionary duo, Ms. Emeline Paat-Dahlstrom and Mr. Eric Dahlstrom, Founders of SpaceBase Limited, illuminated the audience with invaluable insights into the utilization of space technologies to amplify disaster resilience.
A Call to Action
As the event drew to a close, Ms. Liza B. Silerio, a distinguished Board Member of ARISE Global, shared a resonant closing message: "Let us all join the mission towards a world where space science and disaster resilience harmoniously coexist, safeguarding the well-being of humanity for generations to come."
Certificates of Commitment
In recognition of the engaged participants, certificates were bestowed as tokens of their commitment to the cause. This act symbolized the shared dedication to fostering disaster resilience through the application of space science and technology.
Read more:
See the event details here
Visit ARISE Philippines Website https://www.arise.ph
Learn more about ARISE Global Network
Learn more about UNDRR