Drones were launched yesterday to officially mark a joint undertaking by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations and the Department of Agriculture (DA) to use the technology for disaster risk reduction in the agriculture sector. FAO representative José Luis Fernández said the adoption of modern technologies in agriculture, such as the use of drones or unmanned aerial vehicles, can significantly enhance risk and damage assessments and revolutionize the way people prepare for and respond to disasters that affect the livelihoods of farmers and fishermen. Fernandez said improved capabilities to generate timely and accurate data are becoming more vital amid climate change that is evident in stronger typhoons, flooding and drought.

FAO, DA launch drones for disaster risk reduction. (2016, March 18). The Philippine Star, pp. 1, 2.