The Senate committee on public works has ordered a probe of the continuing dispute over the Caloocan-Malabon-Navotas-Valenzuela (CAMANAVA) flood control and drainage improvement project, which was supposed to have been completed in 2007.
Committee chairman Sen. Ramon Revilla Jr. said his panel had to conduct an investigation due to public clamor, as the project was expected to stop frequent flooding in the cities of Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas and Valenzuela.
“If necessary, we will conduct a Senate inquiry on the controversy. There are issues from both sides that need to be addressed such as the right of way, termination of contract and weak dikes,” he said.
Revilla pointed out the exchange of accusations by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the local governments was one of the causes of delays in the completion of the mega-flood control infrastructure.
The lawmaker cited local officials’ denunciation over DPWH’s alleged failure to operate the pumping stations, particularly the pumping station and floodgate in Dagat-Dagatan, Navotas during recent typhoons.
On the other hand, the DPWH blames local governments over the tons of garbage that continues to clog waterways and pumping stations, resulting in flashfloods.
“Concerned parties must patch things up first and reach a consensus that what matters is the welfare of the people, so we can effectively patch up holes that delay the full operation of the project,” he said.
Revilla instructed the DPWH to submit a status report on the flood control project.