To bridge the theories and research outcomes of hydrology with the governance and practice of implementing government agencies, the forum delegates from Kyoto University (KU), Japan Water Agency (JWA), Japan-ASEAN Science, Technology and Innovation Platform (JASTIP), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), Isabela State University (ISU) led by Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino, University and IO-CCA-DRRM President, and Dr. Orlando F. Balderama, Vice President for Research and Development, Extension and Training, and Cagayan State University (CSU) voyaged around the premises of the National Irrigation Administration’s divisions on July 16, 2022, at 10:00 AM to clinch the way forward plans for Magat Dam and reservoir upgrading and rehabilitation. This is a concrete example of a research-based procedure for knowledge and technology-sharing undertakings between global partners — the catchwords encapsulating the essence of the Stakeholders Forum on Integrated Flood Risk Management in Cagayan River Basin.
As a culminating activity of the international event, the said dignitaries visited the NIA-DRD Forecasting Center and its main office, the station for the bathymetric survey equipment, downstream sites particularly the MARIIS Dam, and Carlos S. Salazar Viewdeck. Engr. Arlen Alejandro also presented to the Japanese stakeholders the location map and features of Magat Dam and Baligatan Hepp and Diversion Dam to the Japanese stakeholders. She also explicated the operations of NIA by identifying SN Aboitiz Magat Power Plants as the operator of Magat Hydroelectric Power Plant, describing the Magat flood forecasting stations and early warning system, and presenting the operation rule curve and the protocols on dam discharge and flood warning as well as the categories of dam discharge warning system.
Through the brief lecture and audio-video presentations, the international partners have become more cognizant of the flood and dam situations in the Philippines. This mutual partnership shrouded with shared objectives is a promising avenue for global ties to ensure water security and a better and safer community in the future.
