THE government stepped up its flood control and road-clearing operations as heavy monsoon rains continue to threaten communities across the country, prompting President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to order the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to fast-track critical projects and keep anti-flood facilities operational.
In Marikina City, the Tumana Pumping Station has continued operating since DPWH repaired the damaged generator set that powered two mobile pumps at the facility.
The repairs are expected to hasten rainwater flushing, easing flooding in one of Metro Manila’s flood-prone areas, following the president’s directive to ensure all pumping stations are operational.
In Bulacan, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon inspected the flood-control structure along the Bagbag River in Barangay Calizon, where a stronger, higher structure is being built to prevent the river from spilling over into nearby communities.
The project seeks to increase the river’s capacity and prevent the massive overflow that has repeatedly turned surrounding areas into a “sea” during heavy rain and typhoons.
The president has ordered the project fast-tracked, with Dizon appealing to residents living along the river to cooperate with the government.
“I know what we are asking of you is difficult, but the lives of your families are at stake,” Dizon said, assuring affected residents they would receive proper compensation and housing assistance with the help of the Calumpit local government.
In Davao City, meanwhile, DPWH is reinforcing the banks of the Talomo River in Barangay Talomo with gabion wire-mesh baskets and concrete riprap as the foundation for a higher gabion wall.
The project is designed to strengthen the riverbank and protect nearby communities from flash floods, particularly during the rainy season.
Dizon said that President Marcos has also ordered the accelerated construction of a gap in the dike that contributed to severe flooding in the area last July.
In Benguet, DPWH crews continue clearing the Gov. Bado Dangwa National Road in Bangho, Daclan, Tublay after a soil collapse caused by successive heavy rains. A curtain net has been installed at the affected section as clearing operations continue.
Motorists have been advised to use the Suyoc-Baayan-Posos Road or the Ambongdolan-Tuel-Alno-Alapang Provincial Road as alternative routes until the national road is cleared and declared safe.
Marcos earlier ordered government agencies to ensure that roads damaged or blocked by bad weather are cleared and reopened as quickly and safely as possible.
In Baliwag City, Bulacan, Dizon also inspected the construction of a one-kilometer, four-lane section of the Doña Remedios Trinidad Highway that has remained unfinished for three years.
The deteriorated section has slowed traffic and lengthened travel time for motorists and commuters.
Dizon said Marcos wants the long-delayed road project accelerated, with completion targeted next year.
According to Dizon, the series of projects underscores the administration’s push to strengthen flood defenses, restore damaged infrastructure, and keep critical roads open as the country faces increasingly heavy rains during the wet season.
