TACLOBAN CITY—An environmental planner is pushing for the establishment of an Eastern Visayas Regional Climate Change Center and Information Network utilizing the Peoples Survival Fund.
Nestor Tabungar, private sector representative of the regional land use committee and owner of environmental planning firm, Phil-World Gateway said the proposed center needs an initial investment of P20 million.
The project cost will cover site development, multi-story building construction, office furniture and fixtures, audio-visual equipments, information technology hardware and soft ware, computers and printers, loaded vehicles, and power generation facilities.
“Under Republic Act 10174, the PSF can be used to support adaptation activities of local governments and communities such as establishment of regional centers and information networks,” Tabungar said.
The proposed location for the center is a vacant lot at the Eastern Visayas State University main campus in this city.
The center will provide information on water resources management, land management, agriculture and fisheries, health, infrastructure development, natural ecosystems.
The facility will also improve forecasting and early warning systems as part of preparedness for climate-related hazards, help local government boost their disaster preparedness.
“The center will support institutional development, for local governments, in partnership with local communities and civil society groups, for preventive measures, planning, preparedness and management of impacts relating to climate change, including contingency planning in areas prone to extreme climate events,” Tabungar explained.
The proponent is seeking a resolution from the Regional Development Council endorsing the project for funding by the Climate Change Commission.