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In an era of increasing natural disasters, the Philippines is stepping up its disaster risk reduction and management (DRRM) efforts through an innovative collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Japanese tech company Spectee, Inc. This partnership aims to upgrade the country’s DRRM system using cutting-edge artificial intelligence (AI) technology, ensuring faster and more efficient crisis management.

A Strategic Collaboration

JICA, in partnership with the Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) of the Philippines, has brought Spectee, Inc. onboard to enhance the country’s disaster preparedness. Through JICA’s Public-Private Partnership Promotion Program, Spectee is providing its renowned AI-driven DRRM technology to improve the Philippines’ ability to respond to natural disasters.

Spectee Pro, the flagship technology involved, is a cloud-based, real-time crisis management system that uses AI to analyze images and language on social media platforms. This advanced system processes and extracts critical data points, giving authorities timely and accurate information to make informed decisions during emergencies.

AI Technology to Strengthen Disaster Response

Spectee Pro has been widely used in Japan by government agencies, private companies, and media outlets. Now, with DICT’s assistance, JICA and Spectee are working to customize the system for the Philippine context. By leveraging AI, the technology aims to transform the way disaster-related information is gathered and shared, ensuring quick and accurate responses during critical times.

The partnership was solidified with the signing of a collaboration agreement on September 24 at the DICT office in Quezon City. JICA Senior Representative Oshima Jiro and DICT Assistant Secretary for Infostructure Management Philip A. Varilla signed the document, while Spectee, Inc. Chief Operating Officer Negoro Satoshi participated virtually from Tokyo.

“We strongly believe that our AI Disaster & Crisis Management Solution Spectee Pro can contribute to strengthening the resilience of the Philippines, which faces increasing natural disasters due to climate change,” said Mr. Negoro.

Free Access to AI-Driven Disaster Management for Key Regions

The Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world, frequently experiencing typhoons, earthquakes, and volcanic eruptions. According to the 2024 World Risk Report, it remains highly vulnerable to these natural hazards. In light of this, JICA and Spectee’s initiative is timely and crucial.

As part of the collaboration, Spectee Pro will be provided free of charge for a limited period to 80 government agencies and local government units across the Philippines. The initial list includes major urban centers such as Metro Manila, Cebu City, Davao City, Tacloban City, Tagbilaran City, and Legazpi City—areas that are often at high risk of disasters.

Continuous Improvement through Feedback and Simulations

Beyond deploying the AI technology, JICA and Spectee emphasize the importance of continuous feedback and improvement. The system will undergo regular updates based on actual conditions experienced by users on the ground. Government agencies will also participate in training sessions and simulations to ensure that they are fully prepared to utilize the system effectively during real-world emergencies.

This groundbreaking partnership between JICA, DICT, and Spectee promises to enhance the Philippines’ disaster resilience, helping the country better respond to and recover from natural calamities. As climate change intensifies, such technological advancements are essential to safeguarding lives and livelihoods across the nation.

Source: BusinessWorld