RP’s first upgraded weather tracking radar launched

APARRI, Cagayan — The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services (PAGASA) has launched the country’s first-ever upgraded weather tracking radar in this northernmost town of Cagayan.

Dr. Graciano Yumul Jr., PAGASA officer-in-charge, said the newly upgraded weather facility was funded from his agency’s P17-million budget to enhance the country’s capability in tracking and predicting adverse weather conditions.

He said the Aparri radar is the first of five facilities to be put back in operation under PAGASA’s massive reconditioning and rehabilitation program.

The four other weather stations, whose radar and other facilities are still under rehabilitation, are located in Virac, Catanduanes; Baler, Aurora; Butuan City and Baguio City.

This town’s upgraded weather facility is part of PAGASA’s network of meteorological radar systems for the early detection of tropical cyclones and other weather disturbances affecting the country.

The Aparri weather radar was first commissioned in 1974. Its operation was interrupted in 2001 after typhoon "Feria" battered Northern Luzon.

Science and Technology Secretary Estrella Alabastro led other DOST and PAGASA executives and local officials led by Gov. Edgar Lara and Aparri Mayor Ismael Tumaru during the formal launching of the reconditioned weather tracking facility in Barangay Punta here.

Alabastro said the modernization program, costing a total of P280 million, will include the acquisition of new radars capable of tracking incoming typhoons and other weather disturbances.

"No less than the highest authorities of government have taken cognizance of the need to improve the capacity of the national meteorological service to provide adequate forecasting and warning devices, as articulated in the President’s 10-point agenda," she said.