The NAMRIA Geomatics Training Center recently held a Basic Geographic Information System (GIS) training for DENR-National Capital Region (NCR) under its Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program. The learning event was made possible through a Memorandum of Agreement signed by NAMRIA Administrator Usec. Peter N. Tiangco, PhD and Regional Director, Environmental Management Bureau-National Capital Region (NCR) and OIC Regional Executive Director in Concurrent Capacity, Atty. Michael Drake P. Matias of the DENR-NCR. It was held at the Hive Hotel in Diliman, Quezon City on 02-06 October 2023 with 25 both technical and non-technical DENR-NCR staff as participants. The topics focused on data management, georeferencing, digitizing, basic GIS analysis, and map layout creation.

 

During the opening program, DENR-NCR In-charge Assistant Regional Director for Management Services, Erlinda O. Daquingan, PhD, urged participants to delve into the importance of GIS for environmental preservation. DENR-NCR OIC-Assistant Regional Director for Technical Services, Engr. Henry P. Pacis highlighted the pivotal role of GIS in data management, map production, and natural resource conservation.

 

The NAMRIA training team was composed of Engr./EnP Rosalyn D. Sontillanosa as resource person, and Nilca Jane F. Fabellon and this writer as training assistants.

 

During the closing program, For. Haidee D. Pabalate, Site Coordinating and Managing Officer of the Manila Bay Site Coordinating and Management Office MBSCMO, expressed gratitude for NAMRIA's steadfast support and for sharing valuable knowledge with their personnel. She encouraged participants to continue their learning journey and integrate GIS into their daily activities. Doing so, they would help achieve the objectives of the Manila Bay Rehabilitation Program.