Marcos orders permanent flood solution

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered government agencies to move beyond discussions and begin implementing permanent solutions to the recurring flooding that has battered Central Luzon, prompting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to draw up immediate, medium-term and long-term flood-control measures.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon on Saturday directed regional and district offices in Bulacan, Zambales, Nueva Ecija and Bataan to coordinate with local governments on measures to address prolonged flooding and damage caused by heavy rains.

The directive came after Marcos called for concrete action to address the country’s recurring flood problems.

Earlier this week, Dizon met with Pampanga Gov. Dennis Pineda, Vice Gov. Lilia Pineda and mayors from flood-hit areas, particularly in the province’s 4th District, to discuss possible solutions.

Dizon said Pampanga’s flood-control master plan dates back to the 1990s but was never fully implemented because of opposition to some of its components. He said a similar approach would be pursued in other flood-prone provinces and areas affected by the southwest monsoon, or habagat.

Among the long-term measures being considered are detention basins, which Dizon described as a critical flood-control solution that should be adopted nationwide.

Japanese consultants have advised that detention basins could be highly effective and relatively easy to build, provided suitable land is available. Dizon said cooperation from governors and mayors would be crucial in securing sites.

The government is also preparing immediate financial assistance for local governments dealing with damage and urgent needs from the recent flooding.

Dizon said the DPWH has a P1-billion revolving quick response fund (QRF), which can be replenished if necessary, although the nationwide cost of repairing flood damage is expected to exceed the amount.

He said Marcos had directed that disaster funds be used for the most immediate needs of affected local governments and communities.

Dizon also stressed that the QRF must live up to its name and no longer become a “slow response fund.”

He defended the government’s engagement of Japanese and Korean consultants, saying their technical expertise has been valuable in developing flood-control and infrastructure solutions.

Protecting the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), a major artery for the movement of people and goods in Northern and Central Luzon, is another priority, Dizon said.

The DPWH is likewise working to restore damaged bridges and road links, including the more than 40-year-old Agana Bridge.

Dizon said the bridge’s age, lack of maintenance and unusually heavy water flow contributed to the damage. He expressed hope that vehicles could again pass through the bridge next week as the department works to restore the vital connection to Tarlac.