The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has launched or introduced several technologies and facilities in the Philippines during the first half of the year 2019, according to a recent report.
The Initiatives
- Satellite-tracking antenna
For instance, the country’s largest satellite-tracking antenna was launched in Davao. This will take images of certain areas, which will then be downloaded and distributed to the concerned agencies.
Additionally, it is designed to communicate with Earth observation satellites, including the Filipino-made Diwata-1 and Diwata-2 microsatellites, by receiving, processing, and distributing space-borne imagery.
Moreover, this facility will also be utilised for agricultural monitoring, maritime surveillance, and urban mapping.
- HazardHunter app
HazardHunter app was also launched recently. This app, accessed through a computer or mobile phone, will help people know if their location is at risk for volcanic eruption, tsunami, and other hazards.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology’s fault finder is also included in the app.
It is also deemed helpful for those planning to put up establishments since they could discover if the area they are eyeing is at risk for disasters.
One simply needs to type the location in the app to know if it is a hazard area.
OpenGov Asia recently reported on HazardHunterPH to prepare the Philippines for seismic, volcanic, and hydro-meteorological hazards for more information.
- Hybrid electric train
The Department has also turned over the hybrid electric train (HET) it developed to the Philippine National Railways (PNR) for adaption.
HET is said to be energy-efficient since it is powered by batteries. The train can run at a speed of about 50 km/h and has the capacity to accommodate 220 passengers.
DOST Secretary Fortunato dela Peña shared that Department of Transportation (DoTr) Secretary Arthur Tugade expressed his desire to have more units of the DOST hybrid train.
- Bicol River Basin Rehabilitation Project
Another initiative that was inaugurated was a flood forecasting system in Bicol, an early warning device for a more effective flood forecasting and warning activities.
The “Bicol River Basin Rehabilitation Project” also showcases an improved monitoring of hydrological conditions.
It also has real-time data monitoring facilities that will provide full level of observations throughout the whole basin.
- 3D X-ray Computed Tomography
Earlier this year, the Department launched its Advanced Device and Materials Testing Laboratory’s (ADMATEL) 3D X-ray machine.
The 3D X-ray Computed Tomography is set to produce high-resolution imaging for coral samples to possibly reconstruct sea surface temperature.
- National Metrology Laboratory
The list of projects continues to grow with the state-of-the-art National Metrology Laboratory (NML), located at the DOST compound, and is open to the public
Private firms can also now have their equipment calibrated there, instead of sending them to foreign laboratories.
The NML’s newly-renovated Mass Standards Laboratory (MSL) offers a wider scope of calibration services.
For calibration of non-automatic weighing instruments, the laboratory features equipment that could calibrate up to 300 kilograms.
This laboratory can best cater to the food, manufacturing, and pharmaceutical industries.
- The Perfect Fit Project
The Perfect Fit Project, meanwhile, is under the Textile Product Development program that aims to introduce modern technologies and innovations through the use of a 3D body scanner acquired by the department.
This would help designers, artists, retailers, and manufacturers gain easy access in prototyping of their designs and products for evaluation before public offering.
Body measurement is also provided using an avatar.
