Davao-based state university to launch P4.8-M data center

DAVAO CITY – The state-run University of Southeastern Philippines (USEP) announced on Tuesday it is set to launch a data center project with a funding cost of PHP4.89 million.

Jennifer Hinlo, acting Dean of Schools of Applied Economics of USEP, said the data center project is a collaboration among USEP and two other state universities – the Central Luzon State University and the Visayas State University.

Hinlo said the data center aims to aid policymakers when they make decisions. It has three basic services: socio-economic services like data analysis; training capability for researchers; and database management.

The lion’s share of the project cost will go to the purchase of software that includes statistical software, she said.

Among those that can utilize the services of the data center are the Philippine Council for Agriculture, Aquatic and Natural Resources Research and Development (PCAARD), and banana farmers.

The center will also offer impact evaluation to guide the government whether to continue or not on a project.

"As much as possible we will cater to as many sectors and we will start getting the needs of the industries, the government and also those private researchers," she said.

According to Hinlo, the data center will initially provide PCAARD several services, such as the study on impact evaluation on crop insurance of beneficiaries.

As part of the undertaking, she said a capability-building on Aug. 17 will be attended by some 100 participants who will tackle the topic "Analysis of Science and Technology-related institutional capacity and readiness to effectively implement the Food Safety Act".

The speakers will discuss the study conducted by the University of the Philippines Los Baños’ College of Economic and Management on "the ASEAN economic community: the opportunities and implication on agri-fisheries and forestry sectors". (Digna D. Banzon/PNA)