STREAM-EWS launch revolutionises technology for disaster preparedness in the Philippines' vulnerable zones
Published: Feb 2, 2024 Reading time: 2 minutesCagayan de Oro City, Philippines, 1 February 2024 — The Strengthening Resilience Through Early Action and Impact Mitigation-Early Warning System (STREAM-EWS) project successfully launched on 30 January with a groundbreaking ceremony held in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines.
Funded by the Global System for Mobile Communications Association (GSMA) under the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) and implemented by People in Need Philippines, the STREAM-EWS project will enhance disaster preparedness and impact mitigation, benefiting 52,000 direct users in vulnerable communities across Zamboanga Del Sur, Misamis Occidental, Bangsamoro Autonomous Regions, Surigao Del Norte, and Surigao Del Sur in Mindanao.
Kimberly Brown, GSMA Head of Mobile for Humanitarian Innovation, expressed enthusiasm about the project, stating,
STREAM-EWS will extend its impact to 500,000 indirect users, encompassing community members, radio listeners, and a social media audience poised to receive crucial alerts.
In collaboration with the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAG-ASA) and powered by Smart-PLDT, STREAM-EWS ensures real-time hazard information and risk data. This project utilises tech-based early warning instruments connected to the Internet of Things (IoT), developing alert dissemination models using mobile technology, addressing the gap in impact forecasting at the local level.
“This project is a noble endeavour, and as a telecommunications company, we are here to support this cause. We believe that technology plays a pivotal role in advancing connectivity and fostering safety within communities,” affirms Roberto Suzon, PLDT Business Head of Northern Mindanao.
Post-launch, the team will focus on streamlining local disaster management and enhancing capacities to detect and forecast early warning information. Community awareness will be raised through Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) campaigns, utilising social and digital platforms to improve risk knowledge.
Jan Ciupa, Country Director for People in Need Philippines, expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders who brought the project to life:
The project draws inspiration from the successful Early Warning System 1294 (EWS1294) from PIN Cambodia, showcasing a commitment to proven practices in disaster management.