Legarda calls for accountability, urgent solutions to flood control and management

Senator Loren Legarda raised concerns regarding the budget allocation for flood management programs under the 2025 National Expenditure Program (NEP) of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

Given the country’s continuous flooding issues, especially in Metro Manila, Legarda emphasized the need for accountability and jurisdiction in utilizing funds.

“Despite the annual budget increase for flood control and mitigation, many areas remain vulnerable to severe flooding. The major river basins, principal rivers, and waterways are either not dredged, remain full of solid waste, or the construction is always ongoing, leading people to question why they do not feel any positive change to their situation,” she stated.

Legarda urged the DPWH and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to clarify their roles and responsibilities in flood control projects, particularly regarding the maintenance and repair of flood mitigation structures like pumping stations and navigational gate.

She cited the recent flooding in CAMANAVA (Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, and Valenzuela) caused by the malfunction of a pumping station in Navotas and the accident in the navigational gates.

“There has been a perennial problem with the mandate between the DPWH and MMDA. We have to clearly delineate tasks between these agencies and the local government units to prevent our people from suffering,” Legarda stressed.

DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan clarified that although the DPWH is assisting the MMDA in upgrading and rehabilitating the 57 pumping stations in Metro Manila, the operation and maintenance of the facilities should be under the MMDA based on their charter.

“Hindi ba dapat ay ibalik na lang ang Metro Manila sa DPWH para iisa na lang ang paghahanapan ng kasagutan? Kung ano ang ahensya na may kakayahan at karanasan, ibigay na lang doon ang responsibilidad,” Legarda said.

Legarda, author and principal sponsor of the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000, also noted the outdated drainage systems that are now only 30% effective in handling floodwaters due to population growth and urbanization, according to the Secretary of the DPWH.

She called for a holistic approach to flood management, including not just structural improvements, but also waste management and proper maintenance of tributaries that lead to the pumping stations, including canals and esteros.

“The Filipino people cannot continue to live in fear whenever there are heavy downpours. Time and again, there has been a failure to solve the problem from its very source – clogged esteros, canals, and waterways- caused by improper waste management,” Legarda stressed.

“We cannot just focus on relief and rehabilitation efforts. We should all be proactive in addressing the underlying issues and be more effective in reducing risks to ensure that the budget allocations result in tangible, long-lasting improvements that can be truly felt by the people,” she concluded. (30)