MANILA, (PNA) — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration or PAGASA of the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) is building its first ever National Meteorological and Climate Center (NMCC).
The NMCC will be equipped with state-of-the-art information technology facilities that include research laboratories, weather and climate modeling hubs, a training center and an auditorium to hold symposia and seminars for enhancement of weather forecasting capability.
It will be erected at the PAGASA Central Office, Science Garden Complex in Agham Road, Diliman, Quezon City. Once the center is operational, weather related activities will be at par with other international weather centers. Likewise, our local weather experts will be highly equipped to conduct weather and climate modeling and prediction as well as pursue studies on weather and climate related disasters that will enable us to prepare and respond to them.
The project cost is P275M for the construction of the building and structure outlay, office equipment, furniture and fixtures. This amount is part of the total P425M disbursed to PAGASA under the Disbursement Acceleration Program (DAP) of the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).
The remaining P150M was used for the enhancement of the Doppler Radar Network for National Weather Watch, Accurate Forecasting and Flood Early Warning project.
DAP is a funding mechanism of the government implemented in 2011 to fast track and expedite various government projects like public works, agricultural infrastructure, housing relocation and resettlement, healthcare insurance and weather forecasting, among others, to spur economic growth and cushion the negative effects of recent calamities. Further, DAP funds came from the unused 2010 and 2011 appropriations.