Redefining Resilience

“What is your image of resilience?” asked Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. at the first Kapihan sa Ayala held at the Ayala’s headquarters on October 9.

Solidum’s keynote remarks focused on disaster prevention and mitigation using technology to manage risks and become a resilient nation. He introduced several database-driven tools developed by the DOST that the public and authorities may use to map out and respond to flooding, earthquakes, and landslides. “We can achieve being handa (ready) collectively by harnessing the power of our collaboration and bayanihan spirit through science, technology, and innovation,” said Solidum.

Solidum’s keynote was followed by an interactive demonstration on family disaster preparedness by Vicente Lagunday, senior instructor and founding member of Wilderness Search and Rescue Philippines. Lagunday engaged participants in methods to deal with disaster scenarios such as escaping fires in zero visibility, moving unresponsive individuals, and dealing with household hazards like grease fires. He stressed the importance of remaining calm in order to act rationally in emergency situations.

Kapihan sa Ayala is a platform for discussions on disaster preparedness, where experts share their insights to help the Ayala group improve and build its resilience and readiness in the face of various threats and disasters.

Explained Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer Jaime Z. Urquijo: “Kapihan aims to put together people, over coffee, to engage in meaningful conversations on managing hazards, mitigating risks, and responding to natural hazards [...] We want to do our part to ensure the welfare of every Filipino citizen and contribute to a stronger and more resilient nation together.”

Ayala Chief Sustainability and Risk Officer Jaime Z. Urquijo, Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr, and Ayala Security and Crisis Management Head Emmanuel Bautista

The first Kapihan sa Ayala held at Ayala Triangle Gardens Tower 2 featured a disaster preparedness fair and hands-on exercises led by search-and-rescue expert Vicente Lagunday