Mr. Vincent M. Cotoron, a faculty member and Head of the DRRM Office – Institutional Linkages and Stakeholders Engagement, presented the university’s collaborative project with Agusan del Norte on the development and implementation of a science-based tool to reduce risks and build resilience within the province during disasters and other disruptions in the international forum. He is selected as one of the delegates to attend this year’s Alumni Workshop on Local Actions for Disaster Risk Reduction and Climate Change Adaptation in Bangkok, Thailand, from October 22-24, 2025.
The ‘Agusan del Norte Local Resilience Index (LRI)’ project is targeted to increase the community preparedness and resilience by integrating the metrics into the municipality’s resiliency development plans, thereby enhancing its capacity and fund allocation, workforce, and facilities. The Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) for the project was signed by both parties on March 17, 2025.
The tool shall allow Local Government Units (LGUs) in the province to measure, understand, and strengthen their capacity to withstand and recover from shocks and hazards. By institutionalizing LRI, LGUs can better identify solutions in times of crises.
The implementation of the LRI was launched on September 5, 2025, and shall run for three years. The LRI of Agusan del Norte is the first in the Philippines, the pilot of the national government in the development of the ‘Philippine Resilience Index.’
Project’s timely need
The increased effects of climate change and the sustained intensity of natural and human-induced hazards have created a pressing need for stronger disaster response systems in Mindanao, where the Agusan del Norte and Caraga State University are located. In the recent press release of the Philippine News Agency, the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) emphasized the urgency of establishing more robust disaster response mechanisms across all regions of the island. The project is therefore contextually significant for a more resilient, scientifically-driven, and sustainable Mindanao.
Mr. Cotoron’s presence and presentation of CSU’s commitment to community development in an international audience stand as a strong dedication of the university in advancing its mission of serving communities while supporting the Sustainable Development Goals Nos. 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities) and 13 (Climate Action).
Photos via Mr. Vincent M. Cotoron
Related stories:
Agusan Norte pioneers on Local Resilience Index
MinDA: Stronger disaster response mechanism needed in Mindanao
