THE DEPARTMENT of Science and Technology said that a water infrastructure and research center will soon rise in Region 2 with Isabela State University’s Smart Water Infrastructure and Management project.

DOST Secretary Fortunato de la Peña said that ISU’s SWIM will be a Niche Center for R&D in Region 2.

“It aims to introduce innovative water management approaches through institutionalizing a university-based water research center to undertake R&D education, capacity building programs in the water resources sector and river basins, and provide technical extension services,” De la Peña said.

The DOST will provide P78 million for the project, which is slated to start by the third quarter of 2021.

“This project aims to develop a science-based comprehensive water resource assessment for the design of projects. It also targets to develop climate-resilient flood mitigation and remediation measures,” he said.

SWIM also aims to manage urban water infrastructure, develop low-cost water control infrastructure for effective irrigation water management and harness the potential of the Cagayan River for irrigation.

“The R&D center will help address problems on water resources management, including finding solutions for water hazards like flood drought, and sedimentation,” he said.