Manila: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources' (DENR) Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) has called upon local governments to make comprehensive use of its geohazard maps in their planning and disaster risk reduction initiatives. In an interview with Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon, MGB Assistant Secretary Karlo Queano emphasized the bureau's responsibility to provide critical information on rain-induced landslides and flooding.
According to Philippines News Agency, Assistant Secretary Queano highlighted that the Mines and Geosciences Bureau produces geohazard maps that are instrumental in land use planning. These maps can assist in conducting programs focused on mitigation and adaptation in areas prone to flooding. By understanding flood levels, infrastructure design can be better informed to withstand such conditions.
The MGB's geohazard maps serve as detailed scientific tools identifying communities vulnerable to rain-induced landslides, floods, and storm surges. These maps are intended to aid disaster preparedness, evacuation planning, and urban zoning. The maps are grounded in nationwide field geological assessments that pinpoint rain-induced landslides, flooding pathways, coastal hazards, and subsidence risks.
Initiated in 2008, the mapping work is validated at the barangay level by geologists through site inspections. Queano stressed that these maps are not static and are regularly updated to reflect changing conditions due to natural factors or human interventions.
Geohazard data should directly guide land-use planning and infrastructure design, especially in high-risk areas. Risk information should inform both mitigation and adaptation strategies, including adjustments to building designs in flood-prone zones. Local government units (LGUs) are required to integrate these geohazard maps into their land-use plans in coordination with national agencies and disaster authorities.
Hazard assessments are shared through the national disaster risk reduction system to identify communities at risk during typhoons and earthquakes. With the increasing frequency of extreme weather events, planning must consider worst-case scenarios, particularly regarding rainfall, flooding, and sea level rise. Long-term infrastructure, such as seawalls, must account for future conditions.
Queano also advised residents in high-risk areas to consider relocation or coordinate with LGUs for proper assistance. He urged citizens to be resilient and take seriously the information provided by government agencies, especially in the context of climate change.
