Botolan, Zambales: The Department of Science and Technology-Central Luzon (DOST-3) has transferred Mobile Command and Control Vehicles (MOCCOV) to the governments of Bulacan, Tarlac, and Aurora provinces, as well as the Office of Civil Defense-Region 3. The move aims to enhance local capabilities for disaster preparedness and relief.
According to a news release by Philippine News Agency, DOST-3 Regional Director Julius Caesar Sicat, speaking at the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week, described the MOCCOV as a mobile hub for disaster command and control. It is equipped with triage technology and a Mobile Water Treatment System (MWTS).
Developed by Filipino inventor Dennis Abella, the MOCCOV serves to plan, direct, coordinate, and control forces and assets during emergencies or disasters. The vehicles come with a built-in weather station system, drone, satellite phone, and other communication and surveillance equipment.
According to Sicat, the MWTS in the vehicles can treat water from any source through reverse osmosis, which removes solid and other foreign particles, as well as bad smells and tastes. "With these assets, the three provinces and the OCD Region 3 are now fortified to manage and lead disaster relief efforts effectively," Sicat added.