The Department of Science and Technology, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) has inaugurated its new synoptic weather station in San Ildefonso, Bulacan.
Located in Purok 2, Barangay Palapala, this is the first and only operational synoptic weather station in the province and is equipped with the latest observational instruments to provide accurate weather data for the community. Through the collaborative efforts between PAGASA and the provincial and local government of Bulacan, this facility will serve as a valuable resource for stakeholders aiming to support public services and local development through science, technology and innovation.
The new facility is equipped with state-of-the-art and standard weather instruments used in observation and is operational 24/7. Initial ground-breaking for the station took place four years ago but the project faced challenges due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Commenting at the inauguration on July 18, DOST assistant secretary for development cooperation assistant secretary Rodolfo Calzado, Jr, said, “This event reflects the joint vision of both the DOST and the local government of Bulacan in creating a resilient, sustainable and prosperous community through leveraging the advancement of science, technology and innovation.”
He also congratulated DOST-PAGASA and the provincial and local government of Bulacan for their partnership in providing invaluable insights on the weather for the benefit of all.
Assistant regional director Belen Garcia of DOST Region 3 added, “The public can now source out or gather weather information anytime, and more so during inclement weather in order to have direct access to real-time weather information.
“The establishment of San Ildefonso synoptic station will allow greater protection of local communities against various hydrometeorological hazards by strengthening end-to-end local early warning service, thereby enhancing local capacity on disaster risk reduction and management.”