As the agency moves to improve its data gathering and tracking capabilities.
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) and the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) recently inaugurated its Iloilo Radar Facility.
As per the official press release of the agency, it boasts a state-of-the-art dual-polarimetric Doppler radar system, with the site, officially known as the Iloilo S-band Radar Facility, set to strengthen weather monitoring across the Western Visayas region and nearby provinces.
Through these equipment, it stands ready to provide high-resolution and near real-time data—both essential for tracking heavy rainfall, severe thunderstorms, and tropical cyclones.
The S-band type radar operates at lower frequencies and can produce longer wavelengths to effectively detect atmospheric conditions even during intense rainfall, which PAGASA said makes it “reliable for large-scale weather observations.“
“The enhanced detection capabilities will help DOST-PAGASA deliver more accurate forecasts and timely information that decision-makers rely on, particularly during extreme weather events,” it furthered.
In his keynote address, DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. expressed strong confidence in the technological capabilities of the Iloilo Radar Facility.
While he described it as a vital safeguard for the country against meteorological hazards, he, however, emphasized that infrastructure alone does not save lives.
“It is the combination of technology, skilled scientists, proactive leaders, and a well-informed public that truly builds resilience,” Solidum added. “This is why we in the Department of Science and Technology continue to invest in modernizing PAGASA’s equipment, enhancing forecasting capabilities, and bringing science closer to communities.”
Meanwhile, alongside the event, the agency also broke ground for the new PAGASA Synoptic Station in the the Iloilo International Airport.
The said facility will operate as a vital weather observation hub in the province and once completed, it will “continuously record essential meteorological parameters that support daily weather forecasting while strengthening long-term climate records crucial for research, disaster preparedness planning, and climate adaptation strategies,” according to the state weather bureau.
It also noted that the role of the PAGASA Synoptic Station is critical in aviation operations, especially with the weather data gathered from the station will be utilized to generate reports that ensure safe and efficient flight operations—all vital in safeguarding the passengers, crew, and aircraft.
PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel T. Servando underscored the importance of the groundbreaking of the synoptic station and told, “These may appear to be simple measurements, but they form the very foundation of every forecast we issue.”
“Without accurate observations, there can be no reliable forecasts, and without reliable forecasts, effective preparedness becomes a challenge,” with Servando emphasizing that the facility will deliver continuous and reliable observations of key atmospheric parameters such as temperature, rainfall, wind, and air pressure.
The inauguration and groundbreaking ceremony were attended by some key officials from the Department of Science and Technology and PAGASA, along with local and national government leaders and other key stakeholders.
