CSPC, LGU Balatan, and FRS Unite for AI-Powered Flood Mitigation with ‘Project Apaw’
Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges (CSPC) has joined forces with the Religiosas Siervas de Jesus de la Caridad, through Fundación de Religiosos para la Salud (FRS), and the Local Government Unit (LGU) of Balatan to launch “Project Apaw: Harnessing Micro-Weather Forecasting and Flood Detection with AI and Data Analytics for LGU Balatan.” The tripartite agreement was officially signed on December 17, 2024, in Balatan, Camarines Sur.
Strengthening Disaster Preparedness Through AI
Project Apaw aims to tackle Balatan’s growing vulnerability to climate-related risks, particularly flooding, by developing and deploying a Micro-Weather Forecasting Device and Portal. This cutting-edge system will leverage AI, data analytics, and machine learning to provide real-time weather forecasts and flood detection capabilities, helping the community prepare for and respond to potential disasters.
Key Stakeholders and Implementers
CSPC was represented by Dr. Amado Oliva, Jr., SUC President III, and Dr. Challiz Omorog, Vice-President for Research, Innovation, and Collaboration, alongside key project personnel:
- Mr. Joseph Jessie Oñate – Project Leader
- Mr. Philip Alger Serrano – Programmer
- Ms. Vianne Faye Gastilo – Project Staff
LGU Balatan was represented by Municipal Mayor Nena Bagasbas and Mr. Xanthien Domenic Beñegas, Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer. Signing for FRS was Mr. Reynato S. Caño, in his capacity as Local Coordinator.
Funding and Project Duration
With a 2 million peso grant from FRS, Project Apaw will run from January to December 2025. The project will be implemented by the AI Research Center for Community Development, which will oversee the development of the AI-powered flood monitoring system.
By integrating advanced technologies into disaster risk reduction strategies, Project Apaw is set to enhance Balatan’s resilience against climate change, ensuring safer and more prepared communities in the face of extreme weather conditions.