14 May 2021: Palo, Leyte, which is adjacent to Tacloban City, is one of the fastest-growing towns of Region 8 in post-Haiyan years. However, its effort for economic progress is constantly disrupted by severe floods. Through the iSTART Program, DOST 8 initiated a study on flooding covering Palo, Leyte, and its nearby municipalities. The study entitled: S&T-based Solutions to the Environmental Hazards of Flooding in Palo, Leyte is led by a team of experts organized through Academician Dr. Alvin B. Culaba to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the flooding problem in the municipality and to recommend long-term solutions. Phase 1 of the study, which is being funded through DOST8’s Grant-in-Aid Program, commenced in March 2021 after a series of consultative meetings with the involved Local Chief Executives and Government Agencies. The entire study is expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2022.