The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has allocated PHP 54 million for the acquisition of three Mobile Command and Control Vehicles (MoCCoV) to enhance disaster response efforts in Eastern Visayas. The recipients of these vehicles are Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) in Tacloban City, Eastern Samar State University (ESSU) in Borongan City, and the local government of Pintuyan in Southern Leyte.
According to Marilyn Radam, DOST Eastern Visayas Assistant Regional Director for Technical Operations, all state colleges and universities were considered as potential partners, but only three MoCCoVs could be funded between 2024 and early 2025. The selection was based on location and the readiness of institutions to adopt the technology.
Each MoCCoV, which costs around PHP 18 million, is equipped with advanced disaster response tools, including a weather monitoring station, a rescue quadcopter drone, global satellite communication, surveillance equipment, and medical supplies. It also includes a portable boat for rescue operations and a conference room that serves as a mobile command center. To ensure uninterrupted operations during power outages, the vehicle is powered by solar and wind energy.
DOST partnered with state universities and local government units to leverage their expertise in engineering, information technology, and healthcare, ensuring the efficient operation and management of the MoCCoV. Eastern Samar was chosen due to its seismic-prone location along the Philippine Trench, with ESSU being the only state university in the area capable of handling the technology. Meanwhile, EVSU was selected for its strong background in engineering, IT, and local governance, making it the most suitable institution for the project.
The local government of Pintuyan in Southern Leyte was prioritized due to the town’s high disaster risk, especially following the devastation caused by Super Typhoon Odette (Rai) in December 2021. The MoCCoV aims to improve emergency response capabilities in the municipality and provide critical support during disasters.
Radam clarified that the selection process was based on preparedness and willingness to handle procurement rather than mere interest. Some local government units reportedly declined the opportunity due to the tedious requirements involved in the project.
Developed by DOST, the MoCCoV is a specialized disaster response unit designed to strengthen emergency preparedness and enhance disaster response operations in vulnerable areas.