Pinay Geologist Brings Tools for Disaster Risks in Geneva, Switzerland

Manila, Philippines— Scratch the lab coats and jargon. Mabelline Cahulogan, a geologist filled with passion for keeping people safe, is representing two innovative disaster risk assessment tools at the 50th International Exhibition of Inventions in Geneva this upcoming April 09 to 13, 2025.

Imagine having a friend who can tell you, “Hey, that school your kids go to? It is in a capacity of a risky area,” or “That piece of land you are thinking of buying? Here is what you need to know about the potential hazards around it.” These statements are all about the basics of what the GeoAnalyticsPH and the HazardHunterPH do, and Mabelline is showing the world how it is done.

Mabelline Cahulogan, who is the Officer-In-Charge of the Geology and Geophysics R&D Division of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), a service institute of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) that is principally mandated to mitigate disasters that arise from volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, tsunami, and other related geotectonic phenomena. “Look”, she said in a written interview, “we live in a place where earthquakes and typhoons are part of life. We cannot stop them from happening, but we can be smarter about how we handle them. This is not just a challenge for the Philippines; it is a global issue that we all must address together."

GeoAnalyticsPH is designed primarily for use by local government units, providing comprehensive insight into lands, populations, and critical facilities exposed to natural hazards. This targeted approach ensures that those directly responsible for community safety and development have the necessary data for effective decision-making. “We wanted to make it so local government units, in particular, could get the info they need” Mabelline explained. “No more guessing games, particularly in this field. We are putting more power of knowledge into the people’s hands, and we are now showing the world how to do it.”

When you need information quickly, HazardHunterPH is here for you. It simplifies complex scientific data into user-friendly maps and reports. HazardHunterPH provides essential risk information in seconds, empowering individuals, businesses, and decision-makers. The interactive maps and expert suggestions facilitate proactive planning, helping to protect lives and create resilient communities.

This geospatial platform consolidates hazard data, making it accessible with just a few clicks and enabling informed decisions. Think of it as a magic button that tells you about the risks in any location, instantly. “We are talking about seconds,” Mabelline said. “You can search by address, GPS, and you have got a hazard assessment”.

Mabelline and her team truly show that they care about real people and their lives, and they want to make a global impact. “We are talking about families, communities, entire cities, worldwide” she said. “We want to help build places that are strong and safe, no matter what nature throws at us, and we are going to Geneva to promote that goal”, it directly reflects her mission as a geologist, specializing in disaster risk reduction and management. It shows that her work is not just theoretical; she is also bringing concrete applications and tangible tools to empower global efforts in building safer and more resilient communities.

The DOST-TAPI delegation is actively seeking opportunities for technology licensing, joint ventures, and research collaborations with international partners. Experience the DOST-TAPI booth at the 50th IEIG, where the spirit of Filipino innovation awaits!