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DOST grants P78-M funding for SWIM R&D Center in Cagayan Valley Region

Monday, June 07, 2021 12:00 AM    Views : 1344by:S&T Media Service

PRESS RELEASE

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The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) approved the allocation of almost Php 78 million budget for the establishment of the SMART Water Infrastructure and Management (SWIM) under the Niche Centers for R&D (NICER) Program of the DOST for the people of Cagayan Valley.

SWIM R&D is a project under NICER that aims to introduce innovative water management approaches by institutionalizing a university-based water research center to undertake R&D education, capacity building programs in the water resources sector and river basins, and provide technical extension services.

In his message, DOST Secretary Fortunato T. dela Peńa expressed his gratitude to Isabela State University (ISU) for coming up with a relevant and timely research to help the region solve its problems in water infrastructure and management.

The science chief expressed his full support for the project as he cited the effect of heavy flooding that was experienced by the region during the onslaught of Typhoon Ulysses in November last year, as well as the threats to water availability.

The center will be reinforcing the region in addressing the problems of recurring water hazards due to inclement weather conditions that bring subsequent damages to agricultural properties.

In approaching these kinds of water hazards, the center will primarily undertake four complementary R&D projects: (1) Smart Water Resources Planning and Development of Water Resources Projects and Interventions; (2) Integrated Assessment and Analysis of Hydraulic Assets for Sustainable and Resilient Flood Control Infrastructures; (3) GIS-Based Decision Support Tool in Managing, Monitoring and Applying Intervention of Water Infrastructure for Smart Cities: Case for Cauayan City; and (4) Smart Water Control Infrastructures for Effective Irrigation Management.

The programs will run for three (3) years, that will be implemented in the Cagayan Valley region, with ISU at the lead proponent along the SUCs in the region, partner government agencies, and local government units.

DOST-II Regional Director Engr. Sancho A. Mabborang also expressed his full support for the project by assuring that ISU will receive appropriate funding and assistance.

DOST, with its mandate to provide scientific solutions to pressing problems, will continue to provide central direction, leadership and coordination of scientific and technological efforts in building smarter and resilient communities in the country.

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