Advancing innovation through collaboration: ISU SWIM Program, LGU-Cauayan City lead MOA signing and groundbreaking of subsurface stormwater harvesting facility
The Smart Water Infrastructure Management (SWIM) Program of Isabela State University (ISU), a NICER Program funded by the DOST-PCIEERD, continues to be at the forefront of scientific innovation in the country. The key officials from ISU led by the Vice President for Research and Development, Extension and Training, Dr. Orlando F. Balderama; DOST-PCIEERD; and Local Government Unit – Cauayan City led by the incoming Mayor, Hon. Caesar “Jaycee” S. Dy Jr. spearheaded the MOA signing and groundbreaking ceremony at the SDG Park in Cauayan City on June 15, 2022, to establish a subsurface stormwater harvesting facility and ground monitoring wells in the country.
The current and newly elected Vice Mayor, Hon. Leoncio “Bong” Dalin, represented the outgoing Mayor, Hon. Bernard Faustino Dy, in welcoming the guests and participants during the event. He accentuated the importance of having this collaboration as it will further the development of Cauayan City. The project leader of SWIM Project 3, Dr. Rafael J. Padre, also gave an overview of the project and emphasized the importance of establishing the said facility. After the overview, Ptra. Jojielyn D. Aquino led a prayer of dedication for the parcel of land where this facility will be constructed.
Proceeding to the highlights of this event, the LGU key officials, DOST-PCIEERD, and ISU dignitaries led the groundbreaking at the proposed construction site of the stormwater harvesting facility. Afterward, they sealed their partnership by signing supplemental MOA, which stipulates the roles and responsibilities of ISU and LGU-Cauayan City in the after-construction activities, specifically on the sustainability, security, operation, and maintenance of the facility, as well as their contribution to knowledge transfer. The key signatories, namely Dr. Ricmar P. Aquino, ISU President, and Hon. Bernard Faustino Dy, City Mayor, were duly represented by Dr. Orlando F. Balderama and Hon. Caesar S. Dy Jr., respectively.
Furthermore, Hon. Mayor-elect Dy delivered his inspiring message and pledged to support the establishment of the stormwater harvesting facility in the city. “It is the first of its kind facility in the country,” he added. Engr. Carluz Bautista, a representative of DOST-PCIEERD, also emphasized in his inspirational talk the significance of having a sustainable water resource.
Lastly, Dr. Orlando F. Balderama delivered his motivating and closing remarks by highlighting the possible future collaborative endeavors of ISU and LGU-Cauayan City.
