Business tycoon offers to solve Metro Manila's flood problem
By Hannah Nicol
Business tycoon Ramon Ang has offered to shoulder the costs of clearing Metro Manila’s rivers of obstructions, including relocating houses and schools built over waterways, in a bid to help ease the problem of chronic flooding in the National Capital Region (NCR).
In a press conference with Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso, Ang said he is prepared to purchase land for replacement housing and school facilities to relocate affected communities.
"Ako, San Miguel, Ramon Ang, nagvo-volunteer ako ngayon, ako na ang tutulong sa buong Metro Manila, sa baha, at no cost to the people, at no cost to the government (I, San Miguel, Ramon Ang, am volunteering to help solve the flooding problem in Metro Manila)," he stressed.
He expressed willingness to fund the construction of new homes and schools to replace those currently situated on top of rivers, as part of the efforts to improve flood management.
The offer comes after weeks of flooding caused by monsoon rains and tropical cyclones which underscored the capital’s vulnerability to heavy rainfall.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and lawmakers have also been pushing for a Metro Manila drainage system master plan to address the recurring problem.
The event was also attended by Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Don Artes, and Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie “Wes” Gatchalian.