The Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) on Tuesday broke ground the Doppler Weather Radar Station in Abucay, Bataan.

“Once operational, this station will provide crucial precipitation data across Bataan and surrounding areas. Integrated with satellite data, local monitoring platforms, and numerical weather models, it will significantly boost DOST-PAGASA’s capacity to detect, analyze, and forecast developing weather systems with greater precision,” DOST Secretary Renato Solidum, Jr. said during the ceremony.

In an interview with the Philippine News Agency, PAGASA Administrator Nathaniel Servando said the facility is expected to be operational after two years because the equipment will be customized and manufactured overseas.

The weather radar station, located at the Bataan Peninsula State University (BPSU), will be equipped with an S-band radar.

It is the primary standard to monitor storms, tornadoes, and tropical cyclones over distances from 400 km. radius, Servando said.

About PHP250 million was allocated for this Doppler Weather Radar Station, and Servando said the funding came from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management fund through the Office of Civil Defense.

Meanwhile, Servando said the doppler radar station in Bataan is the 21st in the country.

“However, it is expected to replace the Subic radar since this radar has reached its useful life,” said.

Solidum, meanwhile, thanked the BPSU for hosting the radar station.

“Hosting the facility within an academic institution bridges the gap between scientific research and community application, paving the way for local innovation and student engagement in weather science,” he added. (PNA)