How the weather bureau, a steadfast ally of The Manila Bulletin, remained strong even when caught in the eye of a stormWhen it comes to public service, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration or PAGASA, has one of the richest histories in weather forecasting, tracing back its roots in 1865 when the Philippine …
How the weather bureau, a steadfast ally of The Manila Bulletin, remained strong even when caught in the eye of a storm
When it comes to public service, the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration or PAGASA, has one of the richest histories in weather forecasting, tracing back its roots in 1865 when the Philippine Meteorological Service began. Through the years, the Weather Bureau has encountered challenges and hindrances in fulfilling its functions, such as the destruction of records and scientific knowledge during the 1945 Battle in Manila.
Recognizing the need to achieve the government’s objective of providing environmental protection and utilizing scientific knowledge as an effective instrument to ensure the safety, well-being, and economic security of the people, PAGASA was finally institutionalized in 1972 by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 78. In 1987, the agency was transferred to the Department of Science and Technology (DOST), becoming one of its key Scientific and Technical Services Institutes.
Mandated to protect the lives of Filipinos, DOST-PAGASA, through its improved operational and research capabilities, continuously supports public safety by providing reliable and relevant daily weather forecasts and early warnings for the food and agriculture industry, safe aviation and marine navigation, and disaster risk reduction and response.
Over the years, the scientists, meteorologists, hydrologists, and climatologists in DOST-PAGASA have consistently gone above and beyond their duties. Their exceptional service, supported by innovative research, forms the foundation of the agency’s products and services.
The agency has faced its share of challenges, particularly on human resources and competitive compensation. In the past, some meteorologists were compelled to seek better opportunities abroad. Fortunately, this issue was addressed with the passage of Republic Act 8439, or the “Magna Carta for Scientists Engineers, Researchers, and other Science and Technology (S&T) Personnel.” This legislation established programs aimed at providing incentives for those who are pursuing a career in science and technology.
In parallel, the monumental enactment of Republic Act No. 10692 otherwise known as the “PAGASA Modernization Act,” paved the way for upgrading the technological operational capacity of DOST-PAGASA, further strengthening its role as the premier national weather agency and center of excellence for weather-related information services. To date, the agency has now nineteen Doppler Radars, and is pursuing the completion of one more Doppler Weather Radar station in Agno, as well as 85 field stations nationwide. These laws are a significant victory for the S&T community who long advocated for the proper recognition and fair compensation of their work. Moreover, the modernization of technologies and infrastructures will enable DOST-PAGASA to better serve the public.
With the current impacts of climate change, the weather bureau remains committed to further enhancing its technical capacity by advancing research, development, and innovation.
With the current impacts of climate change, the weather bureau remains committed to further enhancing its technical capacity by advancing research, development, and innovation. The shift to impact-based forecasting will also empower communities, especially the most vulnerable sectors of society, to better prepare for the potential hazards of weather disturbances.
DOST-PAGASA envisions the establishment of more regional forecasting centers and the installation of additional Doppler radars to ensure nationwide coverage. The agency also plans to adopt digital transformation and implement advanced management strategies to improve decision-making. This includes intensive communication campaigns to raise public awareness and appreciation of scientific information, highlighting its importance in everyday life and decision-making. Additionally, DOST-PAGASA advocates for equal opportunities for women and men in the field of science and technology.
Together with the dedicated and committed personnel of DOST-PAGASA, it is my hope that we will continue to sustain our achievements in building a resilient and progressive nation, safeguarding the lives and properties of every Filipino.
Happy Anniversary to The Manila Bulletin! May we continue to be steadfast allies in disseminating crucial weather information.
(Photo) Dr. Nathaniel T. Servando, DOST-PAGASA administrator
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