DOST-PAGASA Launches New Cagayan de Oro River Basin Flood Forecasting & Warning System
Molugan, El Salvador City – April 4, 2025
DOST-PAGASA officially launched the new Cagayan de Oro River Basin Flood Forecasting and Warning System (CDORBFFWS) today, marking a significant step in enhancing flood preparedness and disaster resilience in the region.
This state-of-the-art system features an improved flood forecasting and warning capability, including additional telemetered and sturdier rainfall and water level monitoring stations, along with X-Band radars. These strategically positioned stations—spanning from the upstream to the downstream sections of the river basin—will enable CDORBFFWS hydrologists to provide accurate, timely, and relevant flood bulletins and warnings to communities vulnerable to flooding.
Dr. Nathaniel Servando, DOST-PAGASA Administrator, emphasized the importance of the project, recalling the devastation caused by Typhoon Sendong 14 years ago. He stated, “The catastrophic typhoon served as a reminder of the urgent need to establish a more systematic and comprehensive network of flood monitoring and warning systems.”
The project was made possible through the support of the Government of Japan, via the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), in collaboration with partner local government units and other government agencies.
Ambassador Endo Kazuya also underscored Japan’s commitment to disaster resilience, stating, "Disaster risk reduction remains a key area of cooperation between our countries, as well as the development of Mindanao." He further emphasized Japan’s vision of becoming a global leader in disaster prevention and its goal of sharing disaster preparedness technologies worldwide.
“This project marks a significant step forward in disaster risk reduction and response—ensuring that we protect people’s lives, safeguard livelihoods, and support the economic development of the region,” said DOST Secretary Renato U. Solidum, Jr., highlighting the project's role in strengthening disaster resilience.
Dignitaries and officials, including DOST executives, local chief executives, and representatives from partner agencies, participated in key activities such as the blessing of the CDORBFFWS, the unveiling of the marker, the ribbon-cutting ceremony, and a tour of the facility.
Public Information Unit, CARDS-RDTD
Photo Credits: Documentation Committee
DOST-PAGASA
