The NCMS serves as the focal point and coordinating body on marine researches and oceanographic studies undertaken by various national agencies, institutions and laboratories of the government. The Committee also serves as an advisory body in the formulation and implementation of a long-range national program for the development of marine sciences in the country.
III. Observation Capabilities of the NCMS
The member agencies of the NCMS have diversified specialization. Each have each own expertise in the field of oceanography. These agencies and their corresponding field in oceanography are the following:
a) Biological Oceanography: BFAR, IMFO, PCAMRD, MSI, NRCP, NM and TCTO
b) Physical Oceanography: PAGASA, NAMRIA, MSI, IMFO, OLAG and PCG
c) Geological Oceanography: MGB, NRCP
d) Chemical Oceanography: MSI, NM and PCAMRD
The NAMRIA acts as the National Oceanographic Data Center (NODC) for the Philippines. However, the NODC, as the depository of all oceanographic data in the country is still in the process of collecting and archiving all the data that come from other agencies which are involved in oceanographic observations and recording.
In addition to the NCMS member institutions, there are also other governmental and non-governmental agencies and institutions that indulged in ocean observations for specific purposes especially in the pursuit and implementation of ocean researches and studies being undertaken by them.
IV. PAGASA as the Meteorological Agency of the Philippines
PAGASA is in charge of the nation's meteorological services. This agency is mandated to mitigate or reduce the losses to life and property and provide protection against calamities and utilized scientific knowledge as an effective instrument to ensure the safety, well being and economic security of the country and for the promotion of national progress. The natural phenomena that can cause calamities includes tropical cyclones, floods, droughts and other destructive weather disturbances that affects the Philippines.
