The Department of Agriculture, represented by (1) Ms. Denise Solano, Assistant Director of the Bureau of Soils and Water Management, (2) Engr. Joselle Luna, staff from BSWM- Water Resources Management Division, and (3) Dir. Junel Soriano, Director of the Bureau of Agricultural Research, attended the Japan-Philippines Nexus Program on Water Security Inception Workshop and High-Level/Ministerial Meeting last March 11-15, 2025 at Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.

The project’s objectives include 1. Assessing water resource management and existing dam operation management 2. Applying cutting-edge science-based tools for flood, drought, and sediment management 3. Optimizing dam/reservoir to reduce the risk of drought and flood impacts 4. Implementing Integrated Water Resources Management Best Practices.

Representatives from other government agencies, SUCs, and private entities also attended the program. These include the National Irrigation Administration, Department of Science and Technology,  Commission of Higher Education, Provincial Government of Isabela, Isabela State University, Romblon State University, Mountain Province State University, Bulacan State University, University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines, and SN Aboitiz Power.

Asst. Dir. Denise Solano presented the BSWM plans and programs, focusing on the BSWM Top 5 Agenda with its corresponding activities and projects. She highlighted the initiatives and funded projects on water resources management, such as the implementation of Small Water Impounding Projects and Solar-Powered Irrigation Systems, and the conduct of Cloudseeding Operations.

Dir. Soriano highlighted the DA’s research for development and extension programs. He mentioned the priority research areas on climate change, groundwater management, and the cascading community rainwater catchments. He also highlighted other priority R4D programs towards sustainable agriculture.

This activity will strengthen and further advance collaboration and partnerships between Japan and the Philippines in research-related initiatives on water resource management.

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