Philippines to Make 3D Map to Boost Disaster Preparedness

Manila - The Philippines plans to come up with a three-dimensional map of the country in order to boost disaster preparedness, President Benigno Aquino III said Friday.

Aquino said the government has allocated 1 billion pesos (23.25 million dollars) for the creation of the 3D map.

With this map, we will have a broader view of all areas of the country which would strengthen our ability to identify areas at risk,' he said in a speech at the inauguration of a flood warning system at a dam north of Manila.

Aquino said the map would also improve rescue operations and damage assessment when calamities strike.

The Philippines is one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. In 2010, it was hit by 14 natural disasters that killed more than 1,000 people and affected over 4 million.