The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has formed a new technical working group (TWG) composed of experts from various government and academic fields to develop a more science-based approach to flood control projects nationwide.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon presented the newly formed group Wednesday, stating it was created in compliance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s directive to find a lasting solution to the country’s flooding problems.

The TWG will consult on proposed infrastructure projects to ensure they are realistic and effective, marking a shift away from what Dizon implied were older methods susceptible to corruption.

“Bottom line is we want to understand what the DPWH needs to do to assist in not only flood mitigation but also overall management of water resources,” Dizon said.

The group includes Dizon and several technical experts: Dr. Alfredo Mahar Francisco A. Lagmay, a professor of geological sciences; Dr. Guillermo A. Tabios, a professor at the University of the Philippines College of Engineering; and Dr. Carlo Primo David, undersecretary for Integrated Environmental Services at the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Water Resources Management Office, along with other water experts.

Dizon also noted that the National Irrigation Administration will be included in the TWG.

The DPWH aims to use this wider coordination to come up with a comprehensive, science-based flood control plan, with the goal of producing “real and honest projects that will last long.”