Topographic Maps for Peace and Development

Topographic base maps are used in providing base data that is needed in development planning, infrastructure development, risk reduction and management, and environmental protection of the environment.

A two-year mapping project called “Topographic Mapping for Peace and Development in Mindanao” is being implemented by the National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA) in partnership with the Japanese Government that aims to bring about socio-economic and peace development in Mindanao. An attached agency of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources will be monitoring the activities. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has awarded the project with ¥1 billion or about R300 million worth of grant.

Compared to Luzon and Visayas, Mindanao has the oldest maps, dating back in 1950s. Maps of Luzon were made in the 1970s and is regularly updated. According to DENR, the only thing that hinders them in updating the topographic maps from Mindanao is its peace and order situation.

In the project implementation agreement signed last January 2010, JICA shall send a project team and transfer technology to the Philippines while NAMRIA and Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) will facilitate the involvement of other government and non-government organizations.

DENR Secretary Ramon Paje said that the project aims to update the 205 topographic base maps covering Mindanao at 1:50 000 scale. “Outputs of the project include reports, satellite images, ortho-image maps, ground control point coordinates, and 1:50,000 scale digital topographic data for geographic information system (GIS) application which will be distributed to local government units. These will serve as base information data that will help developers in their development projects in the region,” he added.

Sources:

Manila Bulletin ( August 18, 2010): http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/273013/namria-pushes-digital-map-project