Comprehensive Approach Needed for Flood Control Projects
Addressing the country’s persistent flooding requires a multi-faceted strategy, experts emphasize. Surigao del Sur 1st District Rep. Romeo Momo Sr. highlighted that tackling flooding involves more than just constructing flood control projects. Various factors, including deforestation, urban expansion, clogged waterways, coastal reclamation, rising sea levels, soil saturation, and poor drainage systems, collectively worsen the situation.
“In other words, there are many other matters and issues needing holistic planning and action to combat severe flooding resulting in property damage, displacement of our kababayans, and worse, loss of lives,” Momo, who once served as an undersecretary at the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), said.
Ensuring Accountability in Flood Control Projects
Momo stressed the importance of public involvement to guarantee that flood control projects and government resources are used effectively. “Everyone’s active participation (is needed to ensure) that people’s money have not gone to waste, not to mention the government’s time, effort, and resources,” he added. He also urged holding accountable those responsible for any corrupt practices or mismanagement if evidence arises.
During a recent House committee hearing on public accounts, lawmakers discussed various approaches to improve flood control projects and their implementation.
Lawmakers Share Local Flood Mitigation Insights
Caloocan 2nd District Rep. Edgar Erice pointed out that proper solid waste management combined with engineering solutions can significantly reduce flooding in Metro Manila.
Meanwhile, Marikina 2nd District Rep. Miro Quimbo shared Marikina City’s 15-year flood resilience plan. The city, spared from severe flooding after three typhoons struck Luzon in early July, has invested in improving waterways, creating new channels to direct water to rivers, and aligning infrastructure projects with local needs.
Reviewing Flood Control Projects and Best Practices
The recent hearing also focused on examining allocated funds by region, project accomplishments, challenges during implementation, and reviewing feasibility studies and engineering designs. Officials reported plans to assess whether national and local government units are adopting effective practices such as tree planting, reforestation, and greening programs.
Unprecedented Rainfall Challenges Flood Control Projects
Aside from project-related issues, Metro Manila recently experienced rainfall levels comparable to historic typhoons Ondoy (2009) and Carina (2024). Severe Tropical Storm Crising entered the Philippine area of responsibility mid-July, intensifying the southwest monsoon and causing suspension of classes and government work for nearly a week.
Even after Crising exited, persistent rains continued. Subsequently, Tropical Storm Dante and Typhoon Emong further intensified the monsoon, resulting in heavy downpours across various regions.
Data from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s Effective Flood Control Operation System showed that the week-long rains reached 665.5 millimeters, amounting to 28 percent of Metro Manila’s annual average rainfall. “It means that one week, Metro Manila got one third of its annual average rainfall,” Momo remarked during the hearing.
He pointed out that blaming flood control projects without considering the sheer volume of rainfall overlooks critical factors. “We always blame flood control projects without looking at the volume of rain,” he said in Filipino.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
