Mapúa Scientist Proposes Realistic Disaster & Risk Mitigation Strategies for a Catastrophe-Free Philippines

In recent months, Filipinos have witnessed firsthand the increasing severity of natural disasters, with six successive typhoons wreaking havoc across the country.

The widespread flooding, destruction, and loss of life highlight the urgent need for stronger disaster preparedness and risk management measures.

Dr. Cris Edward F. Monjardin, co-founder of the WEHLO project and program chair of Mapúa University’s Civil Engineering department, emphasizes that climate change is driving the frequency and intensity of these disasters, urging citizens to acknowledge its global impact.

An expert in disaster risk reduction, water resource management, and environmental management, Dr. Monjardin’s expertise stems from years of hands-on experience in disaster mitigation projects. His early work included the Mapúa Phil-LiDAR Project for flood hazard mapping in Region IV-A, and he later led the Automated Real-time Monitoring System (ARMS) and the Flood Risk Assessment for Mitigation and Effective Response (FRAMER) projects. These initiatives deepened his understanding of flood control, water resources management, and the challenges of reducing disaster risks.

Inspired by these experiences, Dr. Monjardin helped develop WEHLO (Weather Environment and Hydromet Solutions), a cutting-edge weather monitoring system designed to assist local government units (LGUs) in disaster management. This affordable technology combines sensors and predictive models, providing real-time data that can help communities prepare for natural disasters. Currently being tested in Angat, Bulacan, Infanta, Quezon, and General Nakar, WEHLO has garnered support from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), furthering its potential to save lives and minimize disaster impact.

While WEHLO is a significant step forward, Dr. Monjardin stresses that it is just one tool in the broader strategy of disaster risk reduction. For a country like the Philippines, located within the Pacific Ring of Fire, comprehensive measures are necessary to reduce vulnerability to natural disasters. He advocates for improving land-use planning, using hazard maps and spatial data to identify high-risk areas and either avoid development or relocate communities to safer locations.

In addition to advanced technology, strengthening infrastructure and educating communities are crucial components of disaster preparedness. Dr. Monjardin emphasizes that real-time weather information, coupled with long-term data, is vital for decision-makers to anticipate floods, coordinate emergency responses, and manage resources effectively.

While government agencies like PAGASA, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB), and local government units are actively working to enhance disaster resilience, Dr. Monjardin believes that everyone has a role to play in disaster preparedness. From students to professionals, every Filipino can contribute to building a more resilient nation. Filipino scientists and researchers are also key players, developing technologies suited to local contexts and collaborating with government agencies to strengthen disaster management strategies.

Dr. Monjardin also advocates for teaching students the ethics of care and compassion alongside technical disaster management skills. By fostering a sense of responsibility for the environment and the well-being of others, the next generation will be better equipped to lead disaster preparedness efforts and innovate solutions to mitigate risks.

Ultimately, Dr. Monjardin stresses that disaster resilience is not just about saving lives—it is about driving progress. By minimizing the impacts of natural disasters, the country can avoid costly losses and redirect funds toward economic development and improving quality of life. As more people recognize the value of disaster preparedness, collective efforts will ensure a more secure and sustainable future for the Philippines.

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