UP-NIGS Partners with Balangiga LGU for Resilient Development

The National Institute of Geological Sciences (UP-NIGS) and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Balangiga, Eastern Samar, formalized their partnership through the signing of a Terms of Reference (TOR). This agreement aims to provide initial geological information for the Balangiga River Watershed, serving as a foundation for the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office (MDRRMO) Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP).

Terms of Reference signing between Balangiga LGU and UP-NIGS

As part of this initiative, the results of initial geological studies conducted by the NIGS Geology 170 and 215 classes in July 2024 were compiled into a coffee table book titled “For Whom the Balangiga Bells Toll – A Path Towards Antifragility.” Designed for non-technical readers, the book highlights key findings and recommendations for the sustainable development of the Balangiga River Watershed. The book was formally turned over to Balangiga Mayor Dana Flynch de Lira, along with Municipal Administrator Dexter A. Alvarina and MENRO Officer Ivan E. Rosaldo. Witnessing the turnover were NIGS Director Dr. Noelynna Ramos, NIGS Lead Faculty for the Geology 170 and 215 classes Dr. Chelo S. Pascua, and NIGS alumnus Mr. Herculito B. Caalim, who has been advising the LGU of Balangiga.

Turnover of “For Whom the Balangiga Bells Toll – A Path Towards Antifragility.”

An innovative 3D projection mapping setup was also demonstrated as an effective tool for disseminating scientific findings. The setup features a 3D-printed model of the Balangiga River Watershed, along with a projector that overlays thematic maps such as lithology, geologic structures, rivers, land use, and hazard maps for floods and landslides. The demonstration was highly praised by experts, including Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (IESM) Director Dr. Cherry L. Ringor, UP Resilience Institute Director Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay, Mr. Richard Ybanez, and former NIGS Director Dr. Mario Aurelio.

Demonstration of 3D projection set-up for the produced thematic maps.

Strengthening this collaboration further, UP-NIGS facilitated a partnership between the Institute of Environmental Science and Meteorology (UP-IESM) and the LGU of Balangiga, culminating in the signing of a Terms of Reference (TOR) on February 6, 2025, at UP-IESM. Additionally, links are being established with the UP Resilience Institute and The NOAH Center, through Dr. Alfredo Mahar Lagmay, who has generously donated an earthquake sensor to be installed in Balangiga as part of its nationwide earthquake monitoring system.

Partnerships and collaboration activities of UP-IESM, UP-NIGS, NOAH Center, and the Balangiga LGU.