Isabela State University (ISU) and SN-Aboitiz Power Magat (SNAP-Magat) officially cemented a new partnership on May 21, 2025 through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at the SNAP-Magat Inc. facility. This collaborative effort is spearheaded by the “Sediment Evaluation and Development of Intervention (SEDI): S&T-based approach for sustainable management of reservoirs and river basins” project, an initiative under ISU’s Smart Water Infrastructure Management (SWIM) Center.

The signing ceremony commenced with a short program, where Mr. Daryl Homer M. Ramos (AVP/Plant Manager of SNAP-Magat) provided a comprehensive introduction to SNAP-Magat. Mr. Ramos highlighted the company’s current operational capabilities, alongside its extensive programs focused on watershed rehabilitation, community engagement, and scholarship offerings.

Following this, Dr. Orlando F. Balderama (Acting Vice President for Research and Development, Extension and Training) underscored the ongoing projects, programs, activities, and collaborative efforts of the SWIM Center and ISU, emphasizing their commitment to Integrated Water Resources Management (IWRM) not only within Region 2 but also across the entire Philippines and Southeast Asia.

The highlight of the event was the ceremonial MOU signing, symbolizing the joint commitment of both institutions to act on the need for collaboration in research, capacity-building, and the development of interventions for sedimentation control, watershed management, and the sustainable use of Magat Dam’s resources to enhance its long-term operational efficiency and environmental resilience.

After the said signing, Dr. Boyet L. Batang (University President) delivered a message of commitment, expressing gratitude for the collaboration. He articulated ISU’s vision, stating, “We are looking for a productive collaboration for both of our agencies, and this is the heart and bread of an academic institution – we need to explore, collaborate in order for ISU to be labeled as one of the best university not just in the Philippines, but also in the Southeast Asia and even in the world.” Dr. Batang further recognized the partnership as a manifestation of fostering effective collaboration, affirming ISU’s full investment in achieving the shared goals detailed in the MOU.

Adding to the messages of commitment, Mr. Augusto O. Rodero (Assistant Vice President – Hydrology, Production Planning and Optimization), conveyed their organization’s enthusiasm for the partnership. Mr. Rodero emphasized the importance of strong industry-academe collaboration, stating, “We all have one goal and that is the sustainability of our resources and optimal management of these limited resources for the common good of everyone. We are very excited to the start of our MOU.”

The day’s activities culminated with a comprehensive tour of SNAP-Magat’s Integrated Remote Operations Center (IROC). This facility serves as the central hub for monitoring and operating all of SN-Aboitiz’s power plants, providing insights into various aspects of dam management, including operations, weather conditions, inflow, power generation, and discharge.

This partnership marks a significant step forward in leveraging scientific expertise and industry experience to enhance sustainable water resource and dam management practices in the Cagayan Valley Region and beyond.