DPWH prepares master plan for flood projects

MANILA, Philippines - After the deadly onslaught of tropical storm “Ondoy,” the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is preparing a master plan for flood control and drainage projects in 12 river basin areas nationwide.

In a statement, DPWH Undersecretary for Visayas Rafael Yabut said areas selected for flood control and drainage projects under Package 1 are: Agos in Calabarzon (Region 4A); Yawa/Basud/Quirangay in Bicol Region (Region 5); and Amburayan in Ilocos Region (Region 1) and CAR.

Areas under Package 2 are: Balete in MIMAROPA (Region 4-B); Aklan River in Western Visayas (Region 6); and Dungcaan (Pagbangaan) in Eastern Visayas (Region 8).

Package 3 comprises Guinabasan in Central Visayas (Region 7); Lake Mainit-Tubay in Caraga (Region 13); and Iponan in Northern Min-danao (Region 10).

Package 4 consists of Tumaga in Zamboanga Peninsula (Region 9); Lipadas in Davao Region (Region 11); and Silway-Popong-Sinaual (Polomolok) in SOCCSKSARGEN (Region 12).

The river basins are selected based on the frequency of overflow, bank collapse, landslide, and flashfloods that occur in the area.

“Due to climate change, there will be a repeat of the Ondoy-like floods, so we have to revise our plans. Experience is the best teacher for us. We really have to upgrade now,’’ Yabut said.