TACLOBAN CITY – A disaster-preparedness innovation developed by the Samar State University’s Samar Island GIS and Data Analytics Center (SIGISDAC) emerged as the top winner in the Likha Award for Outstanding Creative Research during the Regional Invention Contest and Exhibits by Cluster (ClusteRICE) – Visayas Cluster held on August 27–28, 2025, at the Philippine Science High School – Eastern Visayas Campus in Palo, Leyte.
The project, ‘Tanaw: 3D-Printed Urban Model with Geohazard Simulations Using Virtual Environment and AR Projection Mapping’, stood out among more than 40 inventive entries across the Visayas.

Organized by the regional office of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST-8) through its Technology Application and Promotion Institute (TAPI), the event showcased the ingenuity of Filipino inventors ahead of the upcoming Regional Science and Technology Week (RSTW) on September 3–5, 2025.

Project Tanaw provides communities and decision-makers with a scaled, interactive 3D model of urban areas that integrates geohazard simulations and augmented reality features, making it possible to visualize potential disaster scenarios such as flooding and landslides. By combining digital mapping, 3D printing, and AR projection, it aims to strengthen disaster readiness in vulnerable areas.

The innovation was developed by a team led by Engr. Raven Tabiongan with Ar. Lhimarose Tanseco (Architect III), Catherine Carcellar, LPT (Project Dev. Officer), Yvonne Chui (Project Admin. Officer), James Cortel (Motion and Effects Designer), and Sonny Boy Ellema (Computer Programmer).

“We envision a Region 8 that produces more inventors, thinkers, and problem-solvers—people whose ideas can improve lives, strengthen our economy, and make our communities more competitive,” said DOST-8 Regional Director John Glenn Ocaña.

Other regional winners included Region VI’s Coirmach: A Coco Fiber Twining Machine (Tuklas Award for Outstanding Invention – Government Funded), Seed Planter (Unlad Award for Outstanding Utility Model), and various student research projects.

Winners of the Visayas cluster contest will represent the region at the 2026 National Invention Contest and Exhibits (NICE), where they will compete for national recognition and showcase their work on a broader stage.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)

Catarman N. Samar-To enhance mobility and strengthen local connectivity, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) – Northern Samar 1st District Engineering Office (DEO) is currently implementing a P9.74-million road construction project in Sitio Crystal Mountain, Barangay San Jose, Mondragon, Northern Samar.

The project involves the construction of a 471-meter road, with widths of 1.00 m, 2.00 m, and 3.05 m, and a thickness of 0.23 m. It also includes the construction of a 150-meter trapezoidal stone masonry-lined canal, 100 meters of structural concrete with reinforcing steel (grade 40) slope protection with embankment and riprap, and the installation of eleven 910 mm diameter reinforced concrete pipe culverts (RCPC) for water drainage.

In an interview, a resident revealed that the concreting and widening of the road pavement significantly reduces the risk of accidents especially for habal-habal drivers who have long been concerned about safety, as the existing road is narrow and more like a footpath than a proper roadway.

Mr. Bernabe Glulariza also highlighted how the road has positively impacted his work as a farmer.

Bali, aming produkto ngayon, ikumpara noon at ngayon, mas malaki na ang na-improve sa ngayon kaysa sa nakaraang taon, mahirap noon ang pagbyahe dito. Nakaka punta kami dito ng deretso at pwede na din makabalik agad-agad.

Another farmer from the area, Mr. Ruben Silvestre also expressed his thoughts about the project.

“Yana, nadugngan gihapon ngan ginpa-halapad gihapon para diri gihapon kami kurian kun may man makaparok sa amon sin mga sarakyan nga dagko, di na kami kurian kay nadugngan gihapon. Bisan pa mga truck pwede na maka-agi ngadi sa amon agi-anan.”
The project, funded under the 2025 General Appropriations Act, is expected to be completed by October 2025.

(ANALIZA A. PABIA /PR)

Ormoc City – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Leyte 4th District Engineering Office (DEO) maintenance team conducted a weekend de-clogging and clearing activity along the canal in Brgy. Owak, Ormoc City after continuous rains caused it to overflow. The team worked to remove debris and ensure the free flow of water to help prevent flooding and minimize inconvenience to the community. (PR)

TACLOBAN CITY – The provincial government of Northern Samar reaffirmed its commitment to inclusive and compassionate governance by sustaining the Alternative Learning System (ALS) program for persons deprived of liberty (PDLs) at the Northern Samar Provincial Jail.

The initiative was recently highlighted during a Portfolio Day, Sportsfest, and “Tagisan ng Talento” held inside the jail facility, showcasing the talents, skills, and academic milestones of PDLs.

Governor Harris Ongchuan personally graced the event, underscoring the role of education in rehabilitation and reintegration.

“Inclusive education is at the heart of our administration’s development thrust. Through ALS, we provide our PDL community with the opportunity to learn, transform, and eventually contribute back to society,” Ongchuan said in his address.

He further emphasized that the program is not only about academic learning but also about affirming the dignity of PDLs as part of the wider community. “We believe in their potential to help in the progress of our province, and the provincial government is committed to providing the right support and services,” he added.

Outstanding PDLs were recognized for their academic efforts, while winners of the sports and talent competitions were awarded—proving that correctional facilities can also be hubs of personal growth.

OIC Provincial Warden EnP Jay Keenson Acebuche, who formally opened the activity, assured PDLs of the jail management’s commitment to rehabilitation through education. DepEd’s support was also reinforced by Annalyne Balero, principal of Acereda Integrated School, who vowed continued assistance for the ALS program.

(ROEL T. AMAZONA)