Ambassador Kazuya Endo of Japan, together with Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr., inaugurated the Cagayan de Oro River Basin Flood Forecasting and Warning Center in Misamis Oriental on April 4, 2025.
The Center is established through a Japanese grant aid as part of the “Project for Improving Flood Forecasting and Warning System for Cagayan de Oro River Basin” (CDO FFWS).
Implemented by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), the project provides additional X-band radars, rainfall gauging stations, and an upgraded telecommunication network along the Cagayan de Oro River Basin to further strengthen disaster preparedness efforts.
The expanded FFWS is expected to substantially improve information accuracy and provide relevant flood bulletins and warnings to affected communities in Bukidnon and Misamis Oriental.
Ambassador Endo highlighted Japan’s strong commitment to the Philippines’ development, stating that, “Disaster risk reduction remains a key area of cooperation between our countries, and I hope this initiative will raise public awareness and encourage further investment in disaster mitigation in the Philippines.”
He further adds, “Our shared commitment to building a sustainable, disaster-resilient future will continue to guide our partnership in the years to come.”
Japan continues to be the Philippines’ top ODA donor, providing assistance across multiple sectors, including infrastructure, flood control, disaster preparedness, and environment.
Japan has also steadily supported the peace process in Mindanao through various ODA initiatives that aim to boost the socio-economic development of the region.
This project is also a testament to the enduring and strategic partnership between Japan and the Philippines, aimed at creating long-term solutions for the country’s most pressing challenges.