Funding for Completed Flood Control Projects Highlighted
Marikina 1st District Rep. Marcelino Teodoro revealed that the 2026 National Expenditure Program (NEP) again includes funding for completed flood control projects. This key issue was raised following the submission of the NEP by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM), sparking concerns over redundant budget allocations.
According to local leaders, this development confirms House Deputy Ronaldo Puno’s earlier disclosure that several projects listed in the NEP had already been finished yet still received budget allocations. The duplication raises questions about the efficient use of public funds.
Consultation with DPWH Reveals Project Duplication
During a consultation with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on infrastructure funding, Rep. Teodoro specifically pointed out projects within his district. He noted, “There were several items I noticed, and I told Secretary Manuel Bonoan that as early as 2023, a slope protection project at Balanti Creek in Barangay Sto. Niño had already been completed, yet I saw an item included under the flood mitigation program that would be done again.”
Officials reported that during a briefing last Friday, Puno shared that Teodoro intended to return the NEP to the DBM due to the presence of funds allocated to already completed projects. This prompted a review of other districts, including Puno’s own in Antipolo, where some projects previously listed by the DPWH regional engineering office were no longer included in the NEP.
DPWH Clarifies Duplication, Secretary Bonoan Responds
Teodoro sought clarification from the DPWH regarding the duplication. He explained that it resulted from agency-prepared listings rather than congressional identification. Community members said DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan was reportedly surprised by the findings.
“He called the DPWH Regional Director for NCR because this line item is to be implemented by both the Central Office and the National Capital Region. It’s very general and vaguely identified with no specifications provided, so I said it should be clarified and properly explained,” Teodoro shared.
Concerns Over Redundant Road Repair Budgets
Teodoro also criticized the allocation of funds for repairs on well-maintained roads, which he said leads to unnecessary spending. He urged better coordination between the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and DPWH to avoid wasting public resources.
He pointed out that the DPWH listed road works for Malaya Street in Barangay Malanday, Marikina City, despite the street being in good condition and recent drainage improvements completed by the MMDA.
Insufficient Drainage Funding Amid Persistent Flooding
Furthermore, Teodoro lamented the inadequate budget for the drainage system along Sumulong Highway, which connects to Balanti Creek and frequently experiences flooding. He noted that the current allocation would not cover the required 361 meters.
“I saw in the NEP submitted by the DPWH that less than half of the 331 meters will be completed next year. So it will still be an unfinished project that has been budgeted for one year,” he said.
He also questioned the lack of on-the-ground validation of projects, mentioning that some were ambiguously labeled, such as “drainage outfall phase one,” without specific locations or details.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
