The DANAS Project (Earthquake, Tsunami, and Volcano Disaster Narratives for Experiential Knowledge-based Science Communication) successfully launched its Sourcebooks on November 28 and December 9, 2024. The Sourcebooks, developed by the Department of Science and Technology - Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (DOST-PHIVOLCS), in collaboration with Don Mariano Marcos Memorial State University (DMMMSU) - La Union and the University of the Philippines - Visayas (UPV), aim to make disaster preparedness information more accessible by blending scientific data with community experiences through the use of local languages.

The first event, as part of the National Science and Technology Week (NSTW) 2024, held in Cagayan de Oro City featured the Earthquake, Tsunami, and Volcano Sourcebooks, with video packages in Cebuano and Hiligaynon languages. The second in Quezon City introduced the Kapampangan and Tagalog volumes of the Volcano, Earthquake, and Tsunami Sourcebooks. These guides are designed to help communities better understand geological hazards and improve their ability to respond to disasters.

The launch events included presentations by DOST-PHIVOLCS Director, Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol, who emphasized the importance of clear communication in disaster risk reduction. Dr. Ma. Mylene M. Villegas, DOST-PHIVOLCS Deputy Director, and the DANAS Project Leader, provided an overview of the project’s objectives, explaining that the Sourcebooks were designed to help communities connect with disaster preparedness information through local stories and languages. “By publishing these Sourcebooks in local languages, we are making vital knowledge more accessible and culturally relevant,” she said.

By integrating scientific data with the lived experiences of local populations and using their languages, the DANAS project helps foster disaster resilience. It ensures that communities are better equipped to respond to natural hazards. Sourcebooks in Ilocano and Bicolano will be launched in January 2025.