DOST to youth: Be heroes through better disaster preparedness

LAOAG CITY, ILOCOS NORTE – Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. on Tuesday urged the youth to be “heroes” by being more active in disaster preparedness initiatives in their communities.

Solidum made the remarks at the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) launch of National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) 2025 here.

In his speech, Solidum said young Filipinos can possess the following “superpowers” against disasters: learn and share, be prepared, and choose to make a difference.

“Ask questions [and] when you get home, share what you learned with your family,” he said.

“Know what to do during an earthquake or typhoon. Prepare a go-bag. Know your evacuation routes,” Solidum added.

He also urged the youth to be curious and brave as they participate in talks, exhibits, and activities during the NSTW, which will run from Nov. 18 to 21.

Disaster preparedness through visual learning

In an interview with reporters, Solidum said an effective way to teach children about disasters and being prepared for them is through visual learning.

“Ang una nating kelangan ipaunawa, at ito ay related sa the way we educate our kids, is the process,” Solidum said.

(The first thing we need to teach, and this is related to the way we educate our kids, is the process.)

“Dapat may picture sa kanilang utak, hindi lang definition,” he added.

(There must be a picture in their mind, not just a definition.)

An initiative of the DOST, the NSTW is aimed at promoting public awareness and appreciation of science, technology, and innovation in national technologies.

With the theme “Siyensya, Teknolohiya at Inobasyon: Kabalikat sa Matatag, Maginhawa, at Panatag na Kinabukasan,” this year’s NSTW focuses on developing resilient, progressive, and future-ready communities. — JMA, GMA Integrated News