Senator Joel Villanueva has raised concerns about the P61 billion flood control budget allocated for the Bicol region for 2023 and 2024, following the devastation caused by severe tropical storm Kristine. Villanueva called for a review of how the funds were utilized, after reports of widespread flooding in the area.
“Ang budget for flood control ng DPWH sa Bicol region ay P29.4 billion for 2023 and P31.9 billion for 2024, totaling P61.42 billion. Kailangan nating malaman kung saan talaga napunta ang pondong ito,” Villanueva said in a media interview.
He emphasized that this issue would be examined during upcoming budget deliberations, aiming to understand the impact of flood control projects. “So ito dapat tingnan nating mabuti sa budget deliberation, kung may impact ba talaga itong ginagawang flood control projects and programs ng ating pamahalaan,” he added.
Senate President Chiz Escudero echoed Villanueva’s concerns, noting that the flood control issue will be a key point in the budget discussions for agencies like the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
“Moving forward, we will not only exact accountability but also ensure that the 2025 budget includes preventive measures to avoid future calamities,” Escudero said.
Villanueva also pushed for the creation of the Department of Water Resources, citing the need for an integrated approach to disaster management, especially as the Philippines has been ranked as the top country at risk for disasters in two consecutive years according to the World Risk Index.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development reported that more than 3.3 million Filipinos have been affected by the storm’s impact across the country.
