Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. has called on communities and local stakeholders to take an active role in disaster preparedness, stressing that people are at the heart of building resilience.

Speaking at the Luzon leg of Handa Pilipinas 2026, Solidum said disaster preparedness must go beyond surviving emergencies and focus on helping communities recover, protect livelihoods, and thrive despite disruptions.

“People create resilience,” he emphasized, noting that government agencies may provide scientific information, technologies, and support, but local governments, disaster risk reduction officers, barangay officials, and residents must turn these resources into concrete action.

He said individuals who understand local risks, prepare their families, and share their knowledge can become ‘kampiyon ng katatagan’ or champions of resilience.

Solidum also highlighted the ASTIG (Applying Science, Technology, and Innovation in Governance) approach, which encourages institutions to understand community problems, gather evidence, and work with research institutions and technology developers before adopting solutions.