Department of Science and Technology unveils COASTER

The Philippines’ Department of Science and Technology (DOST) has introduced the Coastal Engineering and Management Research and Development (R&D) Center (COASTER) at the Mariano Marcos State University (MMSU).

In a virtual meeting on October 8, DOST presented the MMSU-based research center as among its 10 centers under the Department’s health and industry, energy, and emerging technology sectors. 

The COASTER will spearhead the development of technologies and innovation to mitigate and manage coastal disasters and risks in the Philippines. 

Dr. Nathaniel Alibuyog, COASTER program leader, said that the R&D center is composed of four sectors:

• coastal erosion trends and management strategies;

• assessment, monitoring, and prediction of coastal flooding;

• development of science-based engineering approach to coastal protection;

• enhancing coastal design and infrastructure intervention through the establishment of wave testing laboratory.

The COASTER is the second niche center established in MMSU.