Computer-based surveying and mapping training for Philippine DENR staff

In line with the implementation of the Philippine Reference System (PRS '92) Project, the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in Region XII recently conducted computer training for more or less 26 regional personnel including those from its two line bureaus.

The participants got their five-day hands-on training on database management system and Geographic Information System (GIS) mapping software using Manifold version 8.

The training aimed to effectively meet the objectives of the PRS 92' Project which are to complete and maintain the national geodetic network and to integrate old surveys and maps into the network. The move is in line with the sustainable management and development of the country's natural resources and to establish more accurate spatial positioning for infrastructure and other activities.

Mr. Jaime P. Mallare of NAMRIA presented a step by step composition of a map using the Manifold software. Other members of the training team were Mr. Ghelo Arboleda who facilitated the training on GNIS and Land Survey Data Management System while Mr. Al-Jericho Alcala handled the Metadata System, an information management system on data inputs.

The Geodetic Network Information System (GNIS) is a customized computer-based system developed by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), a DENR-attached agency and the central mapping office of the government. It is the lead implementer of the PRS '92 Project.

As a pre-requisite to the training, the Engineering Team of NAMRIA installed the internet and some equipment for the PRS '92 Project Operations Center, namely plotter, scanner, and four units of networked computers with printers, all of which cost more than a million pesos.

The PRS '92 is a homogeneous national network of geodetic control points, marked by survey monuments or "mojon" that had been established using Global Positioning (GPS) technology. The GPS is an all-weather, high precision, global satellite positioning system that revolutionized navigation and surveying operations.

The primary stakeholders of PRS '92 are all government agencies engaged in surveying and mapping like the DENR, the Department of Agriculture, the Department of National Defense, the Department of Public Works and Highways, the Department of Transportation and Communications, the Department of Agrarian Reform, the National Commission on Indigenous Peoples, and other agencies having interest in mapping.

DENR XII Regional Executive Director Jim O. Sampulna, in his message during the opening program, thanked everyone for their participation. He underscored the importance of computer-based technologies in bringing to the people fast, accurate, and reliable service in land administration while exhorting the participants to hone their skills and to share their knowledge. "I enjoin you to grab the opportunity to learn and to share it with others. You should be available at all times where your expertise is needed," Director Sampulna said.

Source : http://www.pia.gov.ph/