DPWH ramps up declogging, dredging to address flooding

Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon on Friday said the government is intensifying efforts to address the country’s persistent flooding problem, in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive.

Dizon said “Oplan Kontra Baha” has been implemented in identified flood-prone areas as part of the administration’s mitigation strategy.

He said the government continues its declogging, dredging, and desilting operations in rivers, canals, and other waterways to ease flooding during the rainy season.

Dizon added that the President ordered the strict implementation and expansion of Oplan Kontra Baha to ensure government readiness amid heavy rains.

“Before we craft projects, we really make sure that it will help in our mitigation program. We have many projects to implement that doesn’t need billions to spend.

Kamukha ngayon, 'yung ginagawa natin sa OKB, equipment lang ang katapat niyan,” Dizon said.

The DPWH chief said the government is also exploring the expansion of river tributaries, the construction of retention ponds, and the reactivation of cut-off channels to further reduce flood risks.

Dizon also hailed government agencies and the private sector for lending equipment to fast-track the implementation of the flood mitigation program.