Projects to reduce flooding are ongoing, says Palace

FLOODWATERS EVERYWHERE. This aerial photo shows the extent of the flooding that hit the town of Shariff Aguak in Maguindanao del Sur following intense rain brought by the intertropical convergence zone. (Picture dated May 18, 2025 from OFFICE OF CIVIL DEFENSE–BANGSAMORO AUTONOMOUS REGION IN MUSLIM MINDANAO)

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is improving efforts to mitigate flooding during the rainy season, a Palace official said on Wednesday.

At a briefing, Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said flood control projects are ongoing in compliance with the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.

READ: Marcos vetoes flood control projects in 2025 national budget

One of these projects is the 2,339.7–square meter concrete slope protection along Bagac-Mariveles Road in Bataan, which has already been completed, Castro said.

She cited a report from Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan.

“And at the same time, [Bonoan] also said that they have also developed a master plan for each of the 18 major river basins,” she noted.

“So, each has its own master plan according to the specific characteristics and needs of each area,” she added.

READ: Marcos reveals getting false accomplishment reports of gov’t projects

Last May, the DPWH announced the completion of a flood control project in Barangay Talospatang, Pangasinan, which is expected to provide protection against flooding for residents and the agricultural lands.

Meanwhile, in March, the agency said the fourth phase of a slope protection project in Baseco Compound, Port Area, Manila, was already finished.

The Philippines Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration declared the onset of the rainy season on June 2.

It advised the public and all agencies concerned to “take precautionary measures against the adverse impacts of the rainy season, Habagat and other climate and weather events.” /apl