House Speaker Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez has offered a helping hand to the various government agencies tapped to undertake preventive measures against possible floods caused by the La Niña phenomenon. 

“We are here with you, tell us what you need to ensure we are sufficiently prepared for La Nina. We are here to support you,” Romualdez told the heads of the agencies during a high-level meeting Tuesday afternoon, May 14 at the House of Representatives. 

“We pledged all-out support of the House to all the concerned departments and agencies to ensure anti-flood initiatives, including dredging activities, are properly implemented promptly,” said the leader of the 300-plus strong chamber. 

Attending the meetingwere Deparrment of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Department of Science and Technology (DOST) Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Secretary Maria Antonio Yulo Loyzaga, and Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Procopio Lipana. 

Also present was Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Undersecretary Lord Villanueva. 

Romualdez called for the meeting following President Marcos' directive to ensure the safety of the people from the threat of floods. 

The Leyte 1st district congressman stressed the critical importance of working together in preparing for the onset of La Nina. This, as he cited Solidum's warning that there's less time to prepare for typhoons as warm waters caused by the El Nino phenomenon are now nearer the Philippines. 

“We urge all stakeholders, including national and local government agencies, the private sector, and our communities, to actively participate in these initiatives...Together, we can build a more resilient Philippines capable of withstanding the challenges posed by natural calamities,” he said. 

Romualdez also appealed to the public to cooperate with the authorities, particularly in observing proper garbage disposal to avoid clogged waterways that exacerbate flooding. 

“Dapat naman po sumunod tayo sa mga protocols dito sa paglilinis at pagtatapon ng basura dahil napaka importante po na maayos ang ating mga areas kung saan tayo nakatira para maganda ang daloy ng tubig pag malakas ang ulan,” the Speaker said. 

(We should follow the protocols when it comes to the clean up and disposal of garbage because clean communities contribute to the clearing of waterways during heavy downpour.) 

He also urged local officials to do their part in enforcing anti-flood measures, including proper waste disposal rules. 

Romualdez says that the economic impact of flooding can be profound as it affects everything from small businesses to national supply chains. It can result to lost productivity, property damage, and significant recovery costs.