The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), in partnership with the Asian Development Bank (ADB), is developing detailed flood risk management plans for three major river basins in the Philippines.
DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil K. Sadain said the updated master plans are underway for the Mag-Asawang Tubig basin in Mindoro, the Agno River basin in Luzon, and the Cadac-an River basin in Leyte.
These plans, financed through the ADB-supported Infrastructure Preparation and Innovation Facility (IPIF) Additional Financing for Water Projects, are designed to address significant flood risks.
Draft plans were presented during a Steering Committee meeting on Sept. 11, attended by key stakeholders from national agencies and local government units.
“In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the policy instruction of Secretary Bonoan, the master plans being prepared will not only provide a strategic and long-term approach to flood risk management but also have to be integrated with the other sectors to conserve and utilize the water beneficially, like for irrigation, water supply, and power,” Sadain said.
The plans target areas most prone to severe flooding by integrating flood management with water conservation, irrigation, and power utilization.
The study identifies critical issues such as inadequate flood control in the Agno River basin, siltation and erosion in Mindoro, and storm vulnerability in Leyte.
In collaboration with consultants and stakeholders, the DPWH is ensuring that these plans align with the national flood control strategy and support the Build Better More program for disaster risk reduction and inclusive development.