The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) together with the University of Glasgow held a three-day knowledge-sharing session on innovations in sustainable river and flood management.

DOST stated that they convened from March 24 to 26, attended by researchers and experts from numerous National Government Agencies (NGAs), including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), and the National Economic Development Authority (NEDA), among others, as well as innovators and experts from various higher education institutions and state colleges.

Dr. Enrico C. Paringit, executive director of DOST's Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD), emphasized that this workshop will provide a forum for experts in river and flood risk management to exchange knowledge and best practices, which will ultimately result in the development of efficient policies and strategies to lessen the effects of natural disasters on communities.

“Like the flowing waters of a river, the convergence of the streams of knowledge and innovation presented in this event should hopefully bring the environment, communities, and institutions together to a confluence of ideas and shared vision," Paringit said.

DOST-PCIEERD will lend steady support to initiatives like this, in our pursuit to live harmoniously with our rivers, see it a valuable resource to improve the quality of life for our fellow Filipinos,” he added.

The session is an offshoot of the University of the Philippines Diliman's completed project, "Catchment Susceptibility to Hydrometeorological Events: Sediment Flux and Geomorphic Change as Drivers of Flood Risk in the Philippines."

This project is one of four funded projects under the UK-PH Newton Agham Program, "Understanding the Impact of Hydrometeorological Hazards in the Philippines," gave rise to today's conference titled "Make Space PH Rivers."

DOST Secretary Dr. Renato Solidum, Jr. said this knowledge exchange is important in making collaborative work on disaster risk research.

*"*As we adopt these techniques in our local river systems, this three-day capacity-building program will highlight the significance of sustainable river management in reducing the consequences of climate change and achieving environmental sustainability, he said. "

"It also demonstrates how government organizations and academic institutions may pool their resources and expertise to create efficient river and flood risk management plans. Together, we can make sure that policies and initiatives are implemented in an efficient and sustainable manner and that decisions are founded on the best available scientific knowledge,” Solidum added.

According to the World Risk Index (WRI) results for the year 2022, the Philippines has the highest disaster risk among the 193 nations.