Newly-signed PAGASA Modernization Law to strengthen role of PH's premier weather agency.
Last November 3, 2015, President Benigno S. Aquino III signed the PAGASA modernization law, which aims to improve PAGASA’s technological operational capacity, strengthen its role as the premier national weather agency, and attain its vision as a center of excellence for weather-related information services.
The modernization program includes, among others, the acquisition of state-of-the-art equipments, facilities, and systems, which is to enhance the research capabilities and weather data collection of the agency.
It will establish a technology-based data center that is consistent with international standards, which aims to make all weather-related information readily accessible and available to the general public.
The agency upgrades will address the brain drain issue of PAGASA through the creation of a human resource development program that will include a new salary scale for the personnel based on Republic Act No. 8439, otherwise known as the “Magna Carta for Scientists, Engineers, Researchers and other Science and Technology Personnel in Government.”
An incentive system will also be implemented. PAGASA will be able to determine qualified personnel who will be given additional benefits.
Regional weather service centers on flood forecasting and warning sub-centers will also be established in strategic areas around the country.
The modernization program will be implemented for an initial period of three years, with some provisions considered such as payments for multi-year contract obligations incurred under the Act which may be extended beyond the period.
A funding amount worth three billion pesos will be taken from the share of the National Government in the gross income of the Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation (PAGCOR).
[Read the full Republic Act No. 10692]
[Read the original story from PAGASA]
– From the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration
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