In his welcome speech for the World Economic Forum on East Asia 2014, President Benigno “Noynoy” Aquino III stated Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR) technology as one of the main scientific tools in the ongoing mapping efforts of the Philippines. He underscored the benefits of using LiDAR maps particularly in fostering stronger communities amid climate change.

The Disaster Risk and Exposure Assessment for Mitigation (DREAM) Program, represented by its Program Leader Enrico C. Paringit, Dr.Eng. and Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Mario Montejo, received on May 8 the Geospatial World Excellence in Policy Implementation Award for 2014, in the Geospatial World Forum awarding ceremony held in Geneva, Switzerland.

Immediately after the onslaught of Typhoon Yolanda, the Disaster Risk and Exposure Assessment for Mitigation (DREAM) Program, mobilized by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), provided technical assistance in the rapid assessment of damaged infrastructures in the City of Tacloban.

Disaster Risk and Exposure Assessment for Mitigation (DREAM) contributes its LiDAR data products and flood hazard maps to the Yolanda Rehabilitation Scientific Information Center (YoRInfoCenter) launched by the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Department of the Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) last May 17 at the National Engineering Center, University of the Philippines-Diiman.

DREAM brings its flood hazard maps of critical river basins to the Senate of the Philippines in a 2-day exhibit (May 7-8, 2014) at the Senate Office in Roxas Boulevard, Pasay City. Included were the 100-year rain return flood hazard maps from the Flood Modelling Component, meaning that statistically, the flood scenario will occur at least once in 100 years.