President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said the severe flooding in Central Luzon was not caused solely by a lack of flood-control projects, pointing to unusually heavy rainfall linked to climate change as another factor.
Marcos made the statement after a situation briefing at the Pampanga Provincial Capitol on the effects of the southwest monsoon, or Habagat, and successive storms in Region 3.
The president said damaged flood-control structures must be repaired immediately, while ensuring that they are strong enough to withstand future periods of heavy rainfall.
Among the immediate measures being pursued is the implementation of five Sabo River Dams in Nueva Ecija. The dams are expected to slow the flow of water from mountainous areas and reduce siltation.
Marcos also said water collected from the dams could potentially be used for household, industrial and agricultural purposes.
For a longer-term solution, the government is studying the construction of an estimated 100-kilometer dike with a road extending from parts of Central Luzon to Pilar, Bataan.
The proposed structure is intended to prevent seawater entering from Manila Bay from reaching affected areas.
Marcos said the government is continuing to monitor the situation because the extent of damage in some areas has yet to be assessed while floodwaters remain.
He also assured residents that food and health services would continue to be delivered to those in need.
The president’s remarks came as authorities assessed the impact of the Habagat and successive storms on communities across Region 3.
The government is looking at both immediate repairs and longer-term infrastructure projects as officials respond to the flooding and consider measures to reduce the impact of future heavy rainfall.
