PH, Korea sign pact to aid Pagasa on weather, flood forecasting

FILE PHOTO: The PAGASA-DOST Weather Radar Station in Barangay Buenavista, Bato, Catanduanes. PHILIPPINE DAILY INQUIRER/LYN RILLON

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine government and the Korea International Cooperation Agency (Koica) have signed an agreement that would help improve the capabilities of the country’s weather agency.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) said its pact with Koica involves the development of an integrated weather and flood forecasting system in areas surrounding Metro Manila as well as the Laguna Lake.

Pagasa officer-in-charge Nathaniel Servando said that the undertaking will help them in issuing prompt and accurate weather outlooks which will then aid in the timely evacuation of affected people.

“Additionally, the development of an operational flood forecasting model for the river basins within the area will significantly enhance our ability to issue timely and accurate flood forecasts, thereby increasing the lead time for evacuation,” Servando explained during the agreement signing ceremony on Tuesday.

Specifically, Pagasa said the project involves the installation of a Flood Forecasting and Early Warning System in flood-prone places, establishment of hydrological observation and warning facilities, and training of local personnel.

Koica Country Director Kim Eunsub said the project may be used by both Pagasa and local government units. He also said that the project is expected to protect many lives.

“We aim to establish an advanced, integrated, and standardized platform for flood control and disaster management that will be regularly used by DOST-PAGASA and the local government units. This platform will serve as a beacon of hope and resilience for years to come, safeguarding the lives and livelihoods of Filipinos,” Kim said.

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