President Marcos Halts Flood Control Funds
MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has temporarily paused the release of funds for several flood control projects across the country due to emerging problems, sources revealed. This move highlights the administration’s cautious approach toward ongoing infrastructure efforts aimed at mitigating flooding.
Senator Erwin Tulfo shared this update during a recent ambush interview, citing an unnamed informant who disclosed the president’s directive. “Right now, President [Bongbong Marcos] has put a hold on many flood control projects, for your information. He hasn’t approved the release of any funds for flood control because he saw there were problems. Ask Malacañang about it—I know this because someone told me,” Tulfo said in Filipino.
Lawmakers Urged to Step Back From Projects
Tulfo emphasized that the suspension comes as a response to concerns about legislators’ involvement in flood control efforts. He noted, “The [Department of Budget and Management] said the President ordered the hold. I said, good. What right does a senator or congressman have to engage in flood control? None.”
He strongly believes that flood control projects should be managed exclusively by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH). “Ma’am, I’m part of the majority. But I’ll be the first to say, no—stop. Let’s not interfere in flood control projects. Leave it to the DPWH. Now, if you have pork barrel funds, donate all of it to DPWH. What do senators and congressmen have to do with it? No. It’s wrong. That’s not right,” Tulfo added in a mix of Filipino and English.
Plans for Investigation Announced
The senator also announced his intention to push for an investigation into lawmakers allegedly meddling in flood control initiatives. “I will make sure that there will be an investigation into this. Not just an investigation, but also to ensure that it’s the national government implementing flood control projects—not politicians. Not congressmen, not senators, but the Department of Public Works and Highways — the national government,” he concluded.
Government Ramps Up Flood Preparedness
Earlier, President Marcos instructed government agencies to strengthen their efforts in addressing the challenges posed by the rainy season. According to a Palace spokesman, the president ordered the immediate clearing of drainage systems to prevent rapid flooding, particularly in Metro Manila.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
