Manila: The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) on Tuesday announced its utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) to ensure timely public advisories on the release of water from dams under its management. This measure aims to enhance safety and preparedness for communities potentially affected by water releases.
According to Philippines News Agency, NIA Administrator Eduardo Guillen discussed during a hybrid Palace briefing that the agency has implemented an advanced forecast system. This system provides ample lead time between advisory announcements and actual water releases, ensuring communities have adequate time to prepare. "Here at NIA, the truth is two weeks prior. The NIA is utilizing our advance weather forecasting system with AI technology," Guillen stated.
Guillen explained that the shortest advisory period provided by NIA ranges from four days to one week, showcasing confidence in the agency's forecasting system. As of 8 a.m. Tuesday, Magat dam's water level was measured at 185.03 meters, below its normal high water level of 190 meters, while Pantabangan dam was at 194.11 meters.
The high dams managed by NIA have not released water, with only the Ipo dam initiating water release, potentially affecting residents in Bulacan. Currently, Angat dam's water level stands at 198.11 meters, and Ipo dam at 100.28 meters.
Guillen clarified these measures following reports of damage to crops and infrastructure in irrigated areas due to the enhanced southwest monsoon and Severe Tropical Storm Crising (Wipha). The NIA reported approximately PHP339.3 million in initial crop damage and PHP866 million in infrastructure damage. Affected areas include 31,172 hectares across various regions such as the Cordillera Administrative Region, Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, Central Luzon, particularly the Upper Pampanga River Integrated Irrigation Systems area, Calabarzon, Mimaropa, Bicol, and Western Visayas.
NIA is committed to assisting affected farmers through its 'Bagong Bayaning Magsasaka' contract growing program. "The NIA is always ready to assist you in times of calamities like this. We are in continuous coordination with the Department of Agriculture to provide you with the needed seeds to replant again," Guillen assured.
