The Philippines has spent around P1 trillion on flood control measures over the past decade, Senator Bong Revilla revealed Thursday, as lawmakers grilled various government agencies about the widespread flooding that recently affected Metro Manila and nearby areas.
During a Senate Committee on Public Works investigation, chaired by Revilla, he pointed out the significant budget increases for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
“Nasa P42 billion lang yan nung 2015, pero lumobo sa halos P244.57 billion sa 2024,” Revilla noted in his opening statement. “In less than 10 years, may isang trilyong budget kayo para sa baha.”
Senator Nancy Binay criticized the effectiveness of these projects, stating that flood control efforts have “failed to produce the necessary improvements to safeguard our communities.” She expressed concern over the inefficacy of the funds allocated to the DPWH and the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
“It is deeply concerning that despite the significant funds allocated to DPWH and MMDA, our flood management systems remain inadequate,” Binay said.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. recently mentioned that approximately 5,500 flood control projects had been completed since 2022. However, Senator Joel Villanueva, representing flood-prone Bulacan, questioned if these projects were part of a comprehensive master plan.
“The primordial question is really [whether] the DPWH has made reference to a flood control master plan for the 18 major river basins in the country. Does this exist? Do we actually have a master plan?” asked Senator Imee Marcos, emphasizing the lack of a clear strategy.
Revilla also highlighted the issue of non-functional pumping stations in critical areas of Metro Manila. “Yung mga lugar sa kalagatinaan ng Metro Manila na talaga namang kailangan ng pumping stations, yun pa yung wala,” he pointed out.
The investigation also probed whether the reclamation of Manila Bay could be contributing to the flooding. Villanueva remarked on the unprecedented flooding experienced by the Senate.
“For the first time naranasan ng Senado na halos hanggang bewang yung baha dito ho sa labas namin… And then you look at outside the Senate, wala na yung Manila Bay – Manila Sands na,” Villanueva said, suggesting a possible link between the reclamation and the flooding.
The senators are urging the government to clarify these issues and improve flood control measures to prevent future disasters.
