Namria Csu-Hb

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐏 | 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐑𝐈𝐀 𝐥𝐚𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐬 𝐇𝐲𝐝𝐫𝐨-𝐂𝐨𝐧𝐧𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐏𝐇 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐲𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐜 𝐜𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐚𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐏𝐡𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬

The National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), through its Hydrography Branch (HB), organized a seminar on hydrography for its stakeholders and partners at the Makiling 2 Function Room of Park Inn by Radisson North EDSA, SM City North EDSA Complex, North Avenue corner EDSA, Barangay Bagong Pag-asa, Quezon City, on 13 March 2026.

Dubbed HYDRO-CONNECT PH (HYDROgraphy CONsultation and Networking for Enhancing Collaboration and Transformation Philippines), the day-long seminar, the first of four lined-up activities for the year, provided the latest information on NAMRIA’s undertakings related to hydrography and geospatial information management (GIM).

The NAMRIA Chorale opened the program with the singing of Heal Our Land as the invocation, followed by the Philippine national anthem and the Bagong Pilipinas hymn. This was immediately followed by the opening remarks of NAMRIA Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Deputy Administrator (DA) Arlene B. Brillantes.

In her remarks, OIC-DA Brillantes welcomed the stakeholder-participants to the seminar and highlighted how NAMRIA’s hydrographic services are carried out—from survey vessels at sea and specialized instruments beneath the water to teams of professionals working to map the seabed of the Philippine archipelago.

HB Director, Commodore Carter S Luma-ang, provided the program overview of the seminar. In his presentation, he shared the story of the South Korean Sewol ferry disaster to illustrate the critical role of hydrographic information in maritime safety. He encouraged participants to listen closely as the discussions would unpack the hidden complexities of hydrographic charts and how these affect real-world maritime operations.

He further explained that this perspective underscores the purpose of HYDRO-CONNECT PH—an initiative that goes beyond mandates and organizational structures. Through the program, NAMRIA aims to open its “toolbox” to stakeholders by showcasing its survey vessels, technologies, and the capabilities and limitations of its hydrographic data. Ultimately, the initiative seeks to build a common language among maritime partners, recognizing that clarity is critical when agencies work together at sea.

The inspirational message of NAMRIA Administrator, Usec. Peter N. Tiangco, PhD, CESO I, immediately followed. Undersecretary Tiangco emphasized the role of NAMRIA as the country’s central mapping agency and national hydrographic office, highlighting it mandate to conducts hydrographic surveys, produce and maintain nautical charts, and provide marine geospatial data that support safe navigation and informed decision-making in the country’s maritime domain.

He emphasized that strengthening hydrographic capability requires collective action and sustained collaboration among stakeholders. He concluded by stating: “Hydrography is not the work of a single institution—it is the result of collective effort. For a maritime nation like the Philippines, understanding our seas is essential to securing our future. Together, through stronger collaboration and shared responsibility, we can ensure that the knowledge of our seas continues to guide our country toward safer navigation, sustainable development, and responsible stewardship of our maritime domain.”

Presentations on NAMRIA’s undertakings on hydrography and GIM were then delivered by the key officials from HB and the Geospatial Information System Management Branch (GISMB). The presenters and their respective topic titles were: HB-Survey Support Division Chief, Captain Darwin A Dela Cruz, Collecting the Depths: NAMRIA Platforms, Challenges, and Shared Direction; HB-Physical Oceanography Division OIC Norelius G. Baloran, Tides of Change; HB-Nautical Charting Division OIC, Commander Maylord M De Chavez, Charting the First Step: S-100 as the Shared Direction; HB-Maritime Affairs Division OIC, Commander Lorena Jasmin D Lerio, MSDI (Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure): Infrastructure of Trust for Shared Seas; and GISMB-Geospatial Database Management Division Chief Rosal H. Dolanas, NAMRIA: Transforming the Philippine Geospatial Landscape.

During the open forum segment of the program, stakeholder-participants raised various questions, which were answered comprehensively and directly by the speakers. Commodore Luma-ang also responded to questions related to national security. Exhibits showcasing HB’s products and services were displayed to complement the lectures.

In the latter part of the program, HB OIC-Assistant Director for Administration, Commander Aaron Andro V Ching, delivered the executive synopsis of the whole activity. He put emphasis on the salient points discussed by the five presenters, which will serve as references in future activities of HYDRO-CONNECT PH. The stakeholder- participants were then awarded with certificates and tokens of appreciation. OIC-DA Brillantes led the awarding ceremony. With her were Commodore Luma-ang; GISMB OIC, Director Concepcion A. Bringas; and Chief of Staff Rowena E. Bongalos.

In her closing remarks, GISMB OIC, Director Bringas thanked all the attendees for their continued support of the agency’s initiatives. She also acknowledged the contributions of the presenters for sharing their knowledge and expertise, as well as NAMRIA personnel involved in organizing the seminar—from planning to implementation.

The seminar was the first of four activities under NAMRIA’s HYDRO-CONNECT PH initiative. Upcoming activities include a Stakeholder Consultation in May 2026, aimed at identifying priority areas for hydrographic surveys; a High-Level Summit in June 2026, intended to secure policy support and strategic direction; and a Follow-up Session in September 2026, which will refine recommendations and align the next steps. Each of these activities contributes to a larger goal: the development of a comprehensive national hydrographic plan for the Philippines.

Reinforcing the direction set by the Administrator, NAMRIA continues to promote collaboration among stakeholders in managing the country’s maritime domain, supporting safer navigation, sustainable development, and responsible stewardship of Philippine waters.

Article by Jeffrey A. Quodala

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐏 | 𝐀𝐧𝐜𝐡𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐩𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐬: 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐑𝐈𝐀 𝐜𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐟𝐟𝐢𝐜𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐨𝐩 𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐬 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐡𝐲𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐜 𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐯𝐞𝐲 𝐚𝐝𝐯𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬

The National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) continues to strengthen its commitment to aligning with global standards and advancing hydrographic survey practices through the conduct of the NAMRIA Commissioned Officers Hydrographic Survey Standards and Best Practices: Workshop and Echo Seminar. The workshop and echo seminar was held from 24 to 26 February at the Subic Bay Freeport Zone, Olongapo City, Zambales.

Guided by the leadership direction of NAMRIA Administrator Usec. Peter N. Tiangco, PhD, CESO I to further enhance the agency’s technical capability and promote knowledge sharing among its hydrographers, the activity facilitated knowledge exchange, technical leveling, and strategic planning among NAMRIA commissioned officers engaged in hydrographic operations.

The resource speakers were composed of Category A and Category B hydrographers and officers from the Nautical Charting Division (NCD) of the Hydrography Branch (HB). The activity commenced with opening remarks delivered by Cdr Jonato S Donida.

This was followed by discussions on S-102 Bathymetric Surfaces, where LCdr Marlon E Estropia presented its applications and relevance to other S-101 products. Subsequently, LCdr Kurt Louis A Montemor presented key survey considerations in project planning and hydrographic surveying procedures.

Lt Clarizza Mae B Biong and LtJg Monalyne C Rabino discussed the technical requirements for handling S-101 products and outlined strategies to support their effective adoption. The final presentation was delivered by LCdr Alvin V Abraham, who shared insights from his experience at the Center for Coastal and Ocean Mapping of the University of New Hampshire (UNH-CCOM). He highlighted how exposure to international standards and practices can further elevate and strengthen NAMRIA’s current hydrographic operations.

On the second day, participants explored Motion Data Processing procedures with LCdr Montemor and learned practical applications of CARIS HIPS and SIPS from Lt Henrice Jed V Lopez. The afternoon workshop then allowed participants to present and evaluate current practices, identify gaps, and propose actionable strategies to improve our current hydrographic survey operations and standards.

The final day of the seminar featured the Branch/ Division Action Planning Workshop, facilitated by Lt Marck Daniel R Santos, during which participant developed action plans and conducted consultations to ensure practical implementation. These plans will guide the Hydrography Branch and its divisions in refining operational strategies and defining clear pathways for future hydrographic survey initiatives.

The seminar concluded successfully, fostering knowledge sharing and strengthening collaboration among NAMRIA hydrographers in service. The activity contributes to the continuous improvement of hydrographic survey practices and supports the agency’s broader goal of maintaining high standards in hydrographic services.

Article by P/Ens Neill Andrei H Arca

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐏 | 𝐄𝐧𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐠𝐞𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐢𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐜𝐚𝐩𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐲 𝐢𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐚 𝐚𝐧𝐚𝐥𝐲𝐬𝐢𝐬: 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐑𝐈𝐀 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐆𝐈𝐆 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐜𝐥𝐮𝐝𝐞 𝐬𝐮𝐜𝐜𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐟𝐮𝐥 𝐁𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐜 𝐍𝐚𝐮𝐭𝐢𝐜𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐲 𝐓𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠

The National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), through its Hydrography Branch (HB), successfully concluded a four-week Basic Nautical Cartography Training for personnel of the Geospatial Intelligence Group (GIG), strengthening inter-agency collaboration in enhancing technical competency in hydrography and nautical charting.

Conducted from 02 to 27 February 2026 at Camp General Emilio Aguinaldo, Quezon City, the training gathered ten participants from the GIG, who completed the course under the supervision of their Group Commander, Colonel William Alfred T Rodriguez PA (GSC).

The initiative forms part of NAMRIA's continuing efforts to strengthen national geospatial capability and collaboration with partner agencies. The training was conducted with the support of NAMRIA Administrator Usec. Peter N. Tiangco, PhD, CESO I, in line with the agency's mandate to advance geospatial information services and technical cooperation in support of national development and security.

The GIG plays a vital role in providing geospatial intelligence support for military operations and planning. Over the years, they have maintained a strong working relationship with NAMRIA and have actively participated in the agency's technical training programs, including the Basic Hydrography Course conducted last year, while maintaining coordination with the Mapping and Geodesy Branch (MGB).

This continuing collaboration supports the directive to boost technical capability and interagency responsibilities, which are vital for maritime safety and national security in the archipelagic Philippines.

The training was spearheaded by the NAMRIA HB Cartography Training Team, a unit comprising 12 personnel who are graduates of the IHO Category B Nautical Cartography Training. This program is offered by institutions recognized by the International Federation of Surveyors (FIG), the International Cartographic Association (ICA) and International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) or the FIG/IHO/ICA.

Members of the training team completed their specialized training through partner institutions, including the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office (UKHO), the Korea Hydrographic and Oceanographic Agency (KHOA), and Geoscience Australia, among others.

The course curriculum covered five major modules, progressing from the fundamentals of nautical cartography to practical application in producing both paper nautical charts and humanitarian response operations maps. Participants attended lectures and hands-on sessions focusing on chart components, symbology, bathymetry, coastal features, aids and dangers to navigation, and the use of official nautical publications.

The training also highlighted the participation of NAMRIA in various international organizations such as the International Hydrographic Organization, International Maritime Organization (IMO), International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA), and International Centre for Electronic Navigational Charts (IC-ENC), and their roles in relation to ensuring the safety of navigation at sea.

Participants were introduced to the different IHO standards, such as S-4, S-57, and S-58, and received an overview of the emerging IHO S-100 standard, or the Universal Hydrographic Data Model, which is expected to shape the future of hydrographic data management and digital nautical charting worldwide.

A significant portion of the training involved hands-on Geographic Information Systems (GIS) applications using ESRI ArcGIS Pro Maritime tools. Through practical exercises, the participants learned to compile and validate ENC data, translating theoretical concepts into operational applications. The activity is seen as having significantly strengthened collaboration between NAMRIA and GIG, contributing to improved technical capability in support of maritime domain awareness, operational planning, and national security.

According to Commodore Carter S Luma-ang, Director of the NAMRIA Hydrography Branch, the training represents more than just a technical exercise.

"The actual achievement of this program is not in the data processed, the charts, or the maps, but in the people who participated. Because this project or this activity is the heartbeat of collaboration. The true accomplishment of this training is the warming and strengthening of the relationship between NAMRIA and GIG," Commodore Luma-ang said during the Closing Ceremony on 26 February 2026.

"Later, you will realize that the charts or maps that you will create will become the foundation for high-level policy and maritime strategy of our nation," he added.

This milestone collaboration is set to be the foundation for sustained inter-agency initiatives, including joint technical workshops, data-sharing opportunities, and further coordination meetings. This forward-looking strategy ensures the Philippines maintains momentum and keeps pace with evolving international standards.

Article by LTJG Monalyne C Rabino

Map your future with us!

The NAMRIA - Hydrography Branch is now hiring for the following positions:

1. Project Development Officer III (Physical Oceanography Division)
2. Project Development Officer II (Physical Oceanography Division)
3. Tide Observer (Physical Oceanography Division)
4. Utility Worker I (Survey Support Division)

Application may be submitted through this link: https://tinyurl.com/CoSJobHiring

Deadline of application is on 20 March 2026. Read about the eligibility requirements, documentary requirements, and other details by reading the images below. Those interested may contact the NAMRIA-HRMS at telephone (02) 8810-5458, mobile phone 09189257034, or email at [email protected].

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐏 | 𝐈𝐭𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐚𝐧 𝐍𝐚𝐯𝐲 𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐫 𝐀𝐝𝐦𝐢𝐫𝐚𝐥 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐇𝐎 𝐃𝐢𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐫 𝐋𝐮𝐢𝐠𝐢 𝐒𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐩𝐢 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐑𝐈𝐀 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐡𝐲𝐝𝐫𝐨𝐠𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐜 𝐜𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

The National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) welcomed Luigi Sinapi, Rear Admiral of the Italian Navy and Director of the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO), during his visit to the agency's main office on 05 March 2026. The visit aimed to further strengthen hydrographic cooperation between the Philippines and Italy and to discuss developments in the global hydrographic community.

Rear Admiral Sinapi met NAMRIA Administrator Usec. Peter N. Tiangco, PhD, CESO I, together with Officer-in-Charge Deputy Administrator Arlene B. Brillantes, Chief Hydrographer Commodore Carter S. Luma-ang, the agency's branch directors, and Hydrography Branch officers. During the meeting, both sides exchanged views on the current status of hydrography in the Philippines, as well as emerging trends and priorities within the IHO.

Discussions explored potential areas of collaboration between the Philippines and Italy, particularly in advancing hydrographic surveying, capacity building, and the exchange of technical expertise. The engagement highlighted the shared commitment of both countries to improving maritime safety, supporting sustainable ocean governance, and contributing to international hydrographic initiatives.

Rear Admiral Sinapi, who serves as a Director of the International Hydrographic Organization, was also given a tour of the NAMRIA offices, where he was introduced to the agency's ongoing programs and hydrographic activities.

The visit aligns with NAMRIA's broader strategy to strengthen its presence in the international hydrographic community. Earlier in February 2026, the Philippines put forward its nomination to the IHO Council for the 2026–2029 term, reflecting the country’s commitment to playing a more active role in shaping global hydrographic initiatives.

Through engagements such as this visit, NAMRIA continues to foster partnerships with international counterparts and reinforce the Philippines' contribution to the advancement of hydrography worldwide.

Source: https://www.namria.gov.ph/articles.aspx .tab=0

PH NAMRIA Nominated to the IHO Council (2026–2029)
A Stronger Filipino Voice in Global Ocean Governance
The National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) proudly announces its nomination to the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Council for the 2026–2029 term. As a premier archipelagic nation, the Philippines isn’t just watching the tide change — we are helping steer the ship.
The IHO sets global standards for the charts and data that ships around the world rely on. By joining the Council, the Philippines moves from merely following international maritime standards to helping shape them.
Why This Matters to You
By shaping global maritime standards rather than just following them, NAMRIA ensures that international policies reflect the unique needs of the Philippine archipelago.
- Better Data: More precise charts for our vast maritime territories.
- Safer Seas: Improved navigation for our seafarers, fishers, and travelers.
- Stronger Philippines: A more resilient blue economy and more secure maritime borders.
A Global Voice for the Archipelago
Our nomination represents a commitment to the entire region. NAMRIA will advocate for:
1. Regional Leadership: Bringing East Asian perspectives to global ocean governance.
2. Scientific Equity: Pushing for technology sharing and training for developing coastal nations.
3. Sustainable Future: Using world-class hydrography to protect our marine resources for the next generation.
Better Data. Safer Seas. Stronger Philippines.

PH NAMRIA Nominated to the IHO Council (2026–2029)
A Stronger Filipino Voice in Global Ocean Governance

The National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) proudly announces its nomination to the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Council for the 2026–2029 term. As a premier archipelagic nation, the Philippines isn’t just watching the tide change — we are helping steer the ship.

The IHO sets global standards for the charts and data that ships around the world rely on. By joining the Council, the Philippines moves from merely following international maritime standards to helping shape them.

Why This Matters to You
By shaping global maritime standards rather than just following them, NAMRIA ensures that international policies reflect the unique needs of the Philippine archipelago.
- Better Data: More precise charts for our vast maritime territories.
- Safer Seas: Improved navigation for our seafarers, fishers, and travelers.
- Stronger Philippines: A more resilient blue economy and more secure maritime borders.

A Global Voice for the Archipelago
Our nomination represents a commitment to the entire region. NAMRIA will advocate for:
1. Regional Leadership: Bringing East Asian perspectives to global ocean governance.
2. Scientific Equity: Pushing for technology sharing and training for developing coastal nations.
3. Sustainable Future: Using world-class hydrography to protect our marine resources for the next generation.

Better Data. Safer Seas. Stronger Philippines.

NAMRIA-HB IN ACTION | Coast Pilot Survey Team headed by ENS ANA LIANE Z. ZAUSA paid courtesy visit to Governor Darel Uy of Zamboanga Del Norte.

I welcomed the team from the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) – Hydrography Branch during their courtesy call at the Governor’s Office.

Together with Ana Liane Z. Zausa, ENS. Anjanette V. Alabas, SN3 Averill Q. Pilar, and SN3 Micheal R. Tumacder, we discussed strengthening collaboration in hydrographic initiatives that support maritime safety, coastal management, and sustainable development in our province.

Map your future with us!

The NAMRIA - Hydrography Branch is now hiring for the following positions:

1. Cartographer II (Maritime Affairs Division)
2. Engineer IV (Maritime Affairs Division)
3. Cartographer II (Nautical Charting Division)
4. Cartographer I (Nautical Charting Division)

Application may be submitted through this link: https://tinyurl.com/NAMRIAJobOpportunities

Deadline of application is on 09 March 2026. Read about the eligibility requirements, documentary requirements, and other details by reading the images below. Those interested may contact the NAMRIA-HRMS at telephone (02) 8810-5458, mobile phone 09189257034, or email at [email protected].

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐏 | 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐧𝐞𝐰 𝐰𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐑𝐈𝐀 𝐭𝐨 𝐫𝐞𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐏𝐇 𝐢𝐧 𝐈𝐇𝐎 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐢𝐥 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟔-𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟗 𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐦

In a landmark achievement for the country’s maritime sector, the Philippines has been officially nominated to the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) Council. The nomination took place during the East Asia Hydrographic Commission (EAHC) Special Conference held in Tokyo on February 4–5, 2026.

This marks the first time the Philippines will sit on the executive body of the IHO, a move that signals the country's rising influence in global hydrographic governance.

The Philippines was nominated alongside Malaysia to represent the EAHC for the 2026–2029 term. Under the leadership of NAMRIA Administrator, Undersecretary Peter N. Tiangco, PhD, the bid is a direct result of a strategic push to elevate the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) on the international stage.

The Philippine delegation in Tokyo was led by Commodore Carter S. Luma-ang, Director of the NAMRIA Hydrography Branch (HB). He was supported by Commander Aaron Andro V. Ching, OIC-Assistant Director for Administration (HB), and Lt. Clarizza Mae B. Biong, Chief of the Electronic Navigational Chart Section.

The delegation participated in the 15th Meeting of the Training, Research, and Development Center Board of Directors (TRDC-BOD) on February 3, ensuring the Philippines remains at the forefront of hydrographic education and innovation.

The IHO Council is composed of 30 member states and serves as the executive arm of the organization, setting global priorities for maritime safety and hydrographic standards. For the Philippines, this seat provides a platform to advocate for raising specific concerns regarding the navigation and safety of island nations. The seat supports the "Blue Economy" through improved data for port development, fisheries management, and offshore energy; and aligns with enhancing hydrographic data for better disaster risk reduction and marine environmental protection.

The EAHC, established in 1971 with the Philippines as a founding member, remains a critical regional framework. Joining the Philippines in the Council this upcoming term are regional peers China, Singapore, the Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Japan, and Malaysia.

By taking this seat, NAMRIA ensures that the voices of developing maritime states in East Asia like the Philippines are heard in the halls of global maritime policy-making.

Source: https://namria.gov.ph/Articles.aspx .tab=0

𝗡𝗘𝗪𝗦𝗖𝗢𝗢𝗣 | 𝗡𝗔𝗠𝗥𝗜𝗔, 𝗣𝗔𝗚𝗔𝗦𝗔 𝘀𝗲𝗮𝗹 𝗽𝗮𝗿𝘁𝗻𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽 𝘁𝗼 𝘀𝘁𝗿𝗲𝗻𝗴𝗵𝘁𝗲𝗻 𝘀𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗺 𝘀𝘂𝗿𝗴𝗲 𝗺𝗼𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗼𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗮𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗹 𝗵𝗮𝘇𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗴𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻

The National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) and the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST PAGASA) formally strengthened their collaboration through the ceremonial signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the Amihan Conference Room, PAGASA Central Office, Science Garden Compound, Quezon City on 2 February 2026.

The MOU, entitled “Strengthening Coastal Hazards Mitigation Due to Storm Surge through Tide Gauge Deployment and Capacity Building,” establishes a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing the country’s storm surge monitoring and early warning capabilities.

Under the agreement, NAMRIA and PAGASA will work closely on the deployment of tide gauges and meteorological sensors, integration of meteorological and tidal data for hazard analysis, and storm surge modeling and forecasting, improvement of inter-agency data sharing mechanisms, and implementation of reciprocal capacity-building initiatives to strengthen technical expertise and operational readiness. These efforts are expected to contribute to more accurate forecasting, improved risk assessment, and timely dissemination of storm surge warnings to vulnerable communities.

The ceremonial signing was led by Captain Teodoro D. Pasahol, Asst. Director for Operations of NAMRIA’s Hydrography Branch, representing NAMRIA Administrator Undersecretary Peter N. Tiangco, PhD, CESO I, and the PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel T. Servando, PhD., signifying the commitment of both agencies to a coordinated and science-based approach to disaster risk reduction.

The partnership underscores the importance of inter-agency collaboration in addressing the increasing risks posed by coastal hazards, particularly storm surges associated with tropical cyclones and climate variability. Through this MOU, PAGASA and NAMRIA reaffirm their shared mandate to safeguard lives, protect coastal resources, and support national resilience-building efforts.

This MOU between the two agencies supports and aligns with the capstone project of Mr. Norelius G. Baloran, OIC-Chief of the Physical Oceanography Division, Hydrography Branch, as part of his studies at the Development Academy of the Philippines (DAP).

Source: NEWSCOOP by Rina Grace Gersalia, 25 February 2026 https://namria.gov.ph/Articles.aspx .tab=0

𝐍𝐄𝐖𝐒𝐂𝐎𝐎𝐏 | 𝐁𝐫𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐢 𝐀𝐦𝐛𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐝𝐨𝐫 𝐯𝐢𝐬𝐢𝐭𝐬 𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐑𝐈𝐀 𝐭𝐨 𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐠𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧 𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐠𝐞𝐨𝐬𝐩𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐚𝐥 𝐜𝐨𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧

The Philippines and Brunei Darussalam moved a step closer toward deeper maritime and geospatial collaboration as Her Excellency Megawati Manan, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Brunei to the Philippines, paid a courtesy visit to the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA).

The Ambassador was formally received by NAMRIA Administrator Usec. Peter N. Tiangco, PhD, CESO I, together with the agency's Directors from its various technical branches. The meeting underscored the growing importance of geospatial information in strengthening regional cooperation, maritime governance, and sustainable development.

During the visit, Ambassador Manan expressed Brunei's strong interest in enhancing its national geospatial capabilities, particularly in areas related to hydrography, digital mapping, and spatial data management. She highlighted the value of technical collaboration with the Philippines, noting NAMRIA's established expertise in mapping, charting, and geospatial intelligence.

NAMRIA officials presented an overview of the agency's core mandates, including nautical charting, land surveys, remote sensing, and geographic information systems (GIS). The discussions also covered potential areas of cooperation.

As both Brunei and the Philippines are maritime nations situated in Southeast Asia, accurate and up-to-date geospatial information plays a critical role in maritime safety, coastal resource management, environmental protection, disaster risk reduction, and national development planning. Strengthening technical collaboration in these areas is seen as mutually beneficial, particularly amid increasing regional emphasis on sustainable ocean governance.

Officials described the dialogue as productive and forward-looking, laying the groundwork for possible bilateral agreements and future technical engagements between the two countries. The visit also reaffirmed the shared commitment of Brunei and the Philippines to advancing cooperation in science, technology, and maritime affairs.

The courtesy call concluded with both sides expressing optimism about sustained engagement and the exploration of concrete partnership initiatives in the months ahead.

Source: NAMRIA Newscoop Volume # # Issue No. 12 by Commodore Carter S Luma-ang https://www.namria.gov.ph/Articles.aspx .tab=0