As the saying “Necessity is the mother of invention” goes, Filipino scientists worked with the Department of Science and Technology (DOST) to invent and develop the Philippines’ very own versatile amphibious vehicle which they aptly nicknamed the S.W.A.N., the Severe Weather Amphibious Navigator.
The SWAN vehicle prototype was presented to the public during the 26th National Inventors’ Week celebration and the 2019 Regional Invention Contests and Exhibits (RICE) held from November 18-21 at the Central Luzon State University in Muñoz, Nueva Ecija.
Project SWAN was hatched in response to the need of Central Luzon and other disaster-prone provinces in the country to be provided with amphibious vehicles for rescue and relief delivery.
What makes the SWAN unique compared to other amphibious vehicles is that it is made with abaca fiber molded into a fiberglass reinforced composite hull, which makes the SWAN lighter and stronger.
The SWAN is a conversion of an existing truck, it’s under chassis and engine mounted to the hull to form the whole structure.
The SWAN is designed to carry 20 persons and 200 relief bags and is designed to enhance disaster relief and response to flood operation with its on-road, off-road and amphibious capabilities.
SWAN was funded by DOST through the Central Luzon Industry and Energy Research Consortium, the first such DOS-funded project in disaster risk reduction management.
DOST has been involved in innovative programs that address the science and technology needs of the country such as the development of an automated train and working with the University of the Philippines for nanosatellite technology.
DOST has also been involved in enhancing Filipino bamboo musical instruments and helping red tomato farmers in Ilocos.
SEND cheers to the Project SWAN team for its initiative to develop the Filipino amphibious vehicle!
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