The Caloocan City  government on Monday, Jan. 22, received a Modern Mobile Command Vehicle (MoCCoV) from the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) under the Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) program.

The CEST program aims to empower the most economically-challenged communities and improve the quality of life through science and technology.

The vehicle aims to enhance the city's capabilities in disaster and emergency response initiatives.

The MoCCoV features state-of-the-art elements such as a control center, an advanced triage center for medical aid, and provisions for communications, surveillance, and portable boat equipment for rescue operations.

Additionally, it incorporates wind and solar power supply systems, ensuring self-sufficiency for over three days in locations without electricity.

Caloocan City Mayor Dale Gonzalo "Along" Malapitan expressed gratitude to the DOST for supporting disaster response programs.

"Nagpapasalamat po ako sa DOST at sa ating Caloocan Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) dahil malaking pakinabang po sa ating mga mamamayan ang bagong MoCCoV na ating natanggap (I would like to express my gratitude to the DOST and our Caloocan Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) because the new MoCCoV we received is of great benefit to our citizens),” he said.

He emphasized the city's commitment to continuously improving its programs for the safety of its residents.

“In 2022, we received the Gawad Kalasag Award with a 'fully-compliant' rating for our disaster risk reduction programs. Last year, we achieved a 'beyond compliant' rating. Our only task now is to continue the ongoing development of city disaster response programs for the safety of the people of Batang Kankaloo,” he said in Filipino.

The city mayor also affirmed that the MoCCoV, along with the city's previously acquired equipment, will be utilized whenever the need arises.

“Batid ko po na marami na rin tayong mga bagong kagamitan at hiling ko po na hindi dumating ang mga panahong gagamitin natin nang husto ang mga ito (I am aware that we have acquired many new tools and equipment, and I hope that the time won't come when we have to use them extensively),” he said.

“Ngunit sinisigurado ko po sa inyo na nakahanda lagi ang pamahalaang lungsod na gamitin ang buong pwersa ng ating mga disaster and emergency equipment upang tumugon sa anumang pangangailangan ng ating mga kababayan (However, I assure you that the city government is always ready to utilize the full force of our disaster and emergency equipment to respond to any needs of our fellow citizens),” he added.