Navotas Representative Toby Tiangco renewed calls Thursday for the construction of an additional navigational floodgate in Navotas, warning that the city’s aging single gate poses a critical vulnerability to its flood control system.

The existing structure, located at the mouth of the Tangos River, was constructed as part of the Caloocan, Malabon and Navotas flood control project to regulate severe tidal waters and sea surges that historically inundated the coastal city.

Tiangco described the current gate as the backbone of the city’s long-term flood defense network, but warned that its deteriorating condition puts the entire infrastructure at risk.

“The project is not yet complete. We have a lot of things to do and fix,” Tiangco said. “The most important project right now is the second navigational gate because the current one is old, makes abnormal noises, and gets overwhelmed when waves are strong.”

“When the navigational gate breaks, the entire flood control system becomes obsolete because of the high tide,” he added. “That’s why a new navigational gate is needed.”

While Navotas recently drew attention for effective flood mitigation measures during heavy rains — relying on a network of pumping stations, box culverts and sea gates —Tiangco stressed that long-term safety depends on upgrading critical infrastructure.

He said local officials will continue advocating for national support to complete the secondary gate to protect residents, homes, and local businesses from rising tides and severe weather.

“We will continue to work and invest in projects that would establish stronger protections for our constituents,” Tiangco said. “We hope that the time will come that every Navoteño can live free from fear caused by flooding when rain is strong and tides are high.”