(MANILA BULLETIN)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez is batting for the urgent update and implementation of the flood management masterplan for Metro Manila in the wake of massive flooding caused by Typhoon "Carina"-enhanced “habagat” or southwest monsoon. 

“There is already a flood control masterplan in place. We just need to follow, update, and implement it,” Romualdez, the leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives, said. 

The House chief made the statement while distributing relief goods to typhoon victims in San Juan City, Metro Manila on Thursday, July 25. He was accompanied by San Juan City lone district Rep. Ysabel Maria Zamora and some local officials. 

Romualdez says the masterplan needs to be updated to pave the way for the relocation of people residing in low-lying and flood-prone areas. 

“We can’t avoid stronger storms and heavier rainfall due to climate change. We need to revisit and update our flood control masterplans, implement them fully, and consider relocation for residents in low-lying areas, particularly in places like San Juan and Marikina,” he stressed. 

Romualdez, Leyte's 1st district representative, also supported calls to investigate the causes of the massive flooding and ensure proper use of flood control funds. 

“Our oversight functions include ensuring accountability in budget spending. We will review if funds have been used effectively and efficiently, and address any misuse,” he vowed. 

Speaker Romualdez said the proposed P6.352-trillion national budget for 2025 would certainly include funding for flood control infrastructure that are responsive to needs of the time. 

He said that the House is prepared to receive the 2025 National Expenditure Program (NEP), which President Marcos will submit through the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) to Congress on July 29. 

“We are fully prepared and have anticipated this, as there is a process that includes a budget call from the past few months. We are ready to scrutinize, read, review, and, if necessary, refine and amend the budget to be submitted by the DBM and the Executive,” he said.