Mayor Khymer Olaso leads welcome rites for Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. and team as well as stakeholders and participants to the 3-day Regional Regional Science and Technology Week (DOST–RSTW) 2025 featuring the 2025 HANDA PILIPINAS sa Bagong Pilipinas: Innovations in Climate and Resilience Nationwide Exposition (Mindano Leg) held in the city, September 22-25.
The welcome rites dubbed ‘Mayor’s Night,’ and themed “Resilient Together: A Night of Honor and Fellowship” celebrated local government units (LGUs) across the Zamboanga Peninsula for their commitment to disaster risk reduction and resilience building. It was held at a local hotel Monday night, September 22.
Zamboanga City was conferred a plaque of recognition in acknowledgement of the city’s invaluable support and steadfast dedication to the adoption of the DOST-PHIVOLCS Rapid Earthquake Damage Assessment System (REDAS) through the Zamboanga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (ZCDRRMC) Resolution.
Secretary Solidum expressed optimism for the future of disaster resilience in the region. “We look forward to creating even more meaningful solutions as we work together towards a shared vision of safer, more resilient communities.”
For his part, Mayor Olaso acknowledged DOST’s invaluable contribution, describing it as a testament to the impact that science and technology can have on the community.” Let us continue to push boundaries, explore new frontiers, and shape a brighter future for our city.”
The event Tuesday night formed RSTW 2025
featuring the 2025 HANDA PILIPINAS sa Bagong Pilipinas: Innovations in Climate and Resilience Nationwide Exposition (Mindano Leg) on September 22-25.
Also present during the event were DOST Undersecretary for Regional Operations Engr. Sancho Mabborang, Undersecretary for Special Concerns Dr. Teodoro Gatchalian, Asst. Secretary for Countryside Development Engr. Maria Teresa De Guzman, DOST-PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol, DOST-IX OIC Regional Director Jennifer Pidor, DOST regional directors, various mayors from across the region, stakeholders from the private sector, MSMEs, scholars, civil society organizations, among others. (Bernadeth Lazaro) (photo credits: Roselyn Bunot)