Vision for Resilience. Japan’s Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary, His Excellency Endo Kazuya, delivers his remarks during the inauguration of the Cagayan de Oro River Basin Flood Forecasting and Warning System (FFWS) on April 4, highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness and Japan's continued partnership with the Philippines in building a safer, more resilient future. (Photo: DCC/PIA-10)
EL SALVADOR CITY, Misamis Oriental (PIA) — Japan’s Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya praised the Philippine government’s continued disaster mitigation efforts during the inauguration of the Cagayan de Oro River Basin Flood Forecasting and Warning System (FFWS) on April 4.
Endo emphasized the importance of disaster risk reduction (DRR) in light of increasing natural disasters impacting socio-economic development. He noted that the Philippines’ focus on DRR is essential for building a safer and more resilient future.
“Disaster risk reduction remains a key area of cooperation between our countries as well as the development of Mindanao. Our shared commitment to building a sustainable, disaster-resilient future will continue to guide our partnership in the years to come,” he said.
The Government of Japan, through the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), funded the FFWS to improve the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration’s (PAGASA) flood forecasting and warning capabilities for the Cagayan de Oro River Basin.
Takanori Morishima, senior representative at JICA Philippines, described the FFWS as a significant milestone in the Philippines-Japan partnership for a more resilient society.
The system includes a telecommunication network, two X-band radars, seven water level gauges, and 13 ground rainfall gauges in key locations across Cagayan de Oro City and Bukidnon. Real-time radar imagery and monitoring station data are shared with PAGASA and local disaster management offices, benefitting over 700,000 residents in more than eight barangays.
“Although this project has now been completed, JICA is always going to be with you as a partner as we make steady progress in strengthening our partnership in disaster preparedness,” Morishima said.
He also emphasized the importance of public awareness for the system’s success, noting that the benefits of flood forecasting and warning depend on citizens being informed of risks and evacuation needs. (APB/PIA-10)
