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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Erwin Tulfo wants Senate probe on massive, recurring flooding in Palawan

Erwin Tulfo wants Senate probe on massive, recurring flooding in Palawan

Published Jul 20, 2025 12:25 pm  |  Updated Jul 20, 2025 01:27 pm

At A Glance

  • The neophyte senator said he believes the recent flooding in Palawan "is not an isolated incident," noting that in February of this year, Puerto Princesa was placed under a State of Calamity after being inundated by heavy flooding—despite the absence of a typhoon.
Senator-elect Erwin Tulfo (PPAB)
Senator-elect Erwin Tulfo (PPAB)

Senator Erwin Tulfo is calling for an investigation into the massive and recurring flooding in Palawan, particularly in Puerto Princesa City, following the latest deluge that displaced thousands of families.

This, after the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) rescued nearly 100 families in a single town in Puerto Princesa after their homes were submerged by floods caused by Typhoon Crising last Friday, July 18.

About 6,000 families from 31 villages across the city have been displaced, according to the latest advisory. 

The neophyte senator said he believes the recent flooding in Palawan “is not an isolated incident,” noting that in February of this year, Puerto Princesa was placed under a State of Calamity after being inundated by heavy flooding—despite the absence of a typhoon.

The February flooding in Palawan was attributed to a mere “shear line” or sudden changes in wind direction.

Tulfo said the massive and recurring floods in Palawan, particularly in Puerto Princesa City, whenever there are rains, warrants a Senate probe.

“Almost 100 families or more than 200 individuals were rescued by the Coast Guard in one town in Puerto Princesa because their houses were submerged in flood,” said Tulfo. 

“The people of Palawan would want to know why is it so quick for floods to submerge their communities,” he added. 

“Don’t they have a reliable drainage system? Is it because of a failed urban planning? Are there illegal operations on logging and mining that washed out the natural flood barrier?” asked Tulfo. 

Tulfo, who grew up in Palawan, said the residents “need clarity from the local government unit (LGU) and other government agencies about the root of this problem afflicting their lives.” 

According to Tulfo, he will file a Senate Resolution on Monday seeking a full inquiry into the flooding problem and the appropriate interventions that must be urgently put in place.

“And if there are people who need to be held accountable—whether for negligence or corruption—so be it,” he stressed. 

Related Tags

Erwin Tulfo Palawan CRISING
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