By Gabriela Baron
The Department of Science and Technology (DOST) in Central Visayas turned over a P200,000-grant under its Community Empowerment through Science and Technology (CEST) Program to the University of Eastern Philippines (UEP) for the rehabilitation of Catubig River.
In a taped report, DOST Sec. Fortunato de la Peña said the project, titled “S&T Action Frontline Emergencies” (SAFE), aims to rehabilitate the Catubig River through riverbank stabilization using bamboo, nipa, and mangrove.
De la Peña said the project will transform the Catubig watershed into a “climate resilient watershed that can support sustainable development of the area.”
“[It will also] lessen the impact of climate-related disaster risk and support [a] stable source of livelihood for the communities along the river system,” he added.
Catubig watershed is located in the province of Northern Samar and covers the municipalities of Catubig and Las Navas. – ngs