by UPRI Education, UPRI Research and Creative Work, UPRI Knowledge Sharing, and UP NOAH Center
The University of the Philippines Resilience Institute and NOAH Center (UPRI-NOAH) participated in the USBONG: A Transdisciplinary Forum on Nature-based Solutions, held from June 30 to July 2, 2026 at Novotel Manila, Araneta Center, Cubao, Quezon City.
The forum was spearheaded by the Forest Foundation Philippines (FFP) with funding support from the Embassy of Canada in the Philippines, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) and the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Asia. It brought together representatives from agencies, academic institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, and local communities to strengthen collaboration on high-integrity, gender-responsive Nature-based Solutions (NbS) in the Philippines.
USBONG provided a platform for participants to exchange knowledge, share experiences, and strengthen partnerships that support the long-term implementation and scaling of nature-based solutions. The forum also highlighted initiatives that integrate ecosystem restoration, climate change adaptation, and disaster risk reduction across sectors.
During the three-day event, UPRI-NOAH showcased several of its programs and digital innovations that support disaster resilience and climate action. These included the Nationwide Operational Assessment of Hazards (NOAH) platform, Grow and Identify Native Trees in Your Area (GINA), the Augmented Reality Sandbox, the Sakunwari Game, and Decision Support Dashboards.
Among UPRI’s interactive exhibits was the Augmented Reality Sandbox, showcased by Ms. Monica May Mendoza and Ms. Flordeliz Agra of the UPRI Education Division. Developed as an interactive educational tool, the sandbox uses 3D visualization to project topography and simulate water flow on a sand surface. As the terrain is reshaped by hand, the projected landscape updates instantly, allowing participants to observe how changes in topography influence flooding and runoff. Beyond demonstrating natural hazard processes, the Sandbox illustrates how unmanaged landscapes can contribute to increased runoff and flood risk, highlighting the role of nature-based solutions — such as reforestation, watershed protection, and green infrastructure — in slowing runoff and reducing flood impacts.
UPRI-NOAH also featured the NOAH and GINA platforms. NOAH provides high-resolution hazard information on floods, landslides, storm surges, and other climate-related hazards, enabling planners to identify environmentally sensitive areas that require protection or restoration. Complementing this effort, GINA is a web and mobile application that allows citizens to identify, document, and monitor native and indigenous tree species. The platform supports community-led reforestation by promoting the planting of species that strengthen biodiversity and ecosystem resilience.
The Research and Creative Work Division presented the Sakunwari Game and Decision Support Dashboards through Keanu John Pelitro and Troy Owen Matavia, highlighting how digital technologies can enhance disaster preparedness, public engagement, and evidence-based decision-making.
The Knowledge Sharing Division, represented by Kel Almazan and Chris Sanchez, complemented the exhibit by distributing resilience advocacy materials and engaging participants in discussions on UPRI’s programs and initiatives.
Through its participation in USBONG 2026, UPRI-NOAH reaffirmed its commitment to advancing science-based, technology-driven, and community-centered solutions for disaster resilience. By integrating geospatial technologies, hazard science, and ecosystem-based approaches, the center continues to support national efforts to strengthen disaster risk reduction, climate change adaptation, and the implementation of Nature-based Solutions across the Philippines.
Visit the NOAH website and Studio at https://noah.up.edu.ph/.
Visit GINA website at https://gina.up.edu.ph/
Download the GINA app via Google Play Store https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=co.median.android.rrnobo&pcampaignid=web_share.