MGB-7 trains MDRRMO in geohazard mapping

CEBU, Philippines — In response to the challenges posed by Typhoon Tino last year, the Mines and Geosciences Bureau Region (MGB-7) lent its technical expertise to Mandaue City’s Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO) through a week-long training held recently.

The program, led by the MDRRMO, aimed to equip all 27 barangays with essential geohazard mapping skills, thereby strengthening local disaster resilience and preparedness.

MGB-7’s timely support underscores its commitment to empowering local government units with specialized technical guidance.

The training focused on the hands-on use of QGIS, guiding participants from basic map interpretation to the generation of detailed hazard data.

MGB-7 geologists Russyl Bryile, Anthony Q. Lanzaderas, and Ronnel S. Dalugdog facilitated the sessions, collaborating with city personnel to integrate official geohazard datasets with local land-use information.

Participants identified landslide- and flood-prone areas and documented hazards for each barangay, creating risk maps that inform the placement of evacuation centers and the designation of safe community pathways.

By the end of the program, delegates from all barangays had produced tailored risk maps, enabling data-driven decision-making for disaster mitigation.

Jayzon C. Sebial, a GIS specialist from the Mandaue City Planning and Development Office, led the city’s mapping efforts, while MGB-7 provided technical supervision to ensure the scientific accuracy of the data.

MGB-7 OIC Regional Director Al Emil G. Berador highlighted the importance of collaboration, saying, “It’s always an honor to support our local partners in Mandaue City. Real progress happens when we work together, and MGB7 will always be here to help our LGUs protect their communities and ensure a safer future for everyone.”

Buddy Alain C. Ybañez, head of the MDRRMO, expressed gratitude for MGB-7’s assistance, noting that the project exemplifies effective cooperation between national agencies and local offices in building community resilience.

The initiative marks a significant step toward strengthening Mandaue City’s disaster preparedness, ensuring that barangays are better equipped to respond to future hazards with scientifically informed strategies.