The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) pledged to address flood mitigation problems in the country using a holistic approach.
DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan stated that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. directed the agency to prioritize flood control projects.
Furthermore, Marcos also emphasized that the projects should be resilient and implemented holistically, noting that engineering solutions are just one component in addressing flood mitigation issues caused by the climate change phenomenon.
As part of its flood control measures, the DPWH plans to build three dams in the Sierra Madre mountains to manage floodwaters and prevent flash floods in Metro Manila.
“Dito sa Metro Manila, dapat siguro tingnan kung pwede nating magawan ng mga infrastructure facilities that will impound water in the watershed,” said Bonoan.
Additionally, the agency will push through with the Pasig-Marikina Flood Control Program.
According to Bonoan, the DPWH is rehabilitating 37 regional pumping stations across the country, 15 of which have already been completed, and the rest are expected to be completed within the year.
The agency is also focused on addressing various environmental issues, including proper waste management, as part of its initiatives for the year.
