SIGAW

SIGAW is an Early Warning System (EWS) for different disaster scenarios. The first implementation is for tsunami early warning. SIGAW is mainly comprised of a GSM communication and control module attached to sirens that can be triggered remotely during tsunami scenarios. Information from PHIVOLCS’ ultrasonic tide gauges, wet and dry sensors are continuously monitored by PHILVOLCS central station. Triggering the system is being conducted though a Decision Support System which allows automatic triggering. Powered by 126 dBA warning sirens with 3600 coverage, the alarm can be heard at a distance of 500 m and then eventually alert the local folks.

In 2015, the university started the installation of 17 units of SIGAW composed of a combined hardware and software setup. According to BatStateU President Tirso A. Ronquillo, the 13 towns in the province of Batangas namely; Balayan, Bauan, Calaca, Calatagan, Lemery, Lian, Lobo, Mabini, Nasugbu, San Juan, San Luis, Taal and Tingloy were identified as tsunami-prone by the PDRRMO.

During the visit at Tingloy, Dr. Ronquillo with the VP for Research, Development and Extension Services Albertson D. Amante set a meeting with Hon. Laurence Alvarez, Municipal Mayor of Tingloy to discuss the university’s proposed establishment of a marine biodiversity research center officially called, Verde Island Passage Center for Oceanographic Research and Aquatic Life Sciences (VIP CORALS). It was then followed by the signing of memorandum of agreement on the proposed VIP CORALS and the project SIGAW between BatStateU and the municipality of Tingloy.

As an academic institution that values the importance of disaster preparedness, the university will continue to be responsive in providing assistance to high-risk communities to reduce vulnerability and also enhance resiliency in various ways.