Mayor Isko clashes with DPWH over uncoordinated projects in Manila
By Hannah Nicol
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso criticized the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for implementing infrastructure and flood control projects in the city without coordinating with the local government.
In photo: Business tycoon Ramon Ang, Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso, and MMDA Chairman Don Artes in a press conference in Manila on Friday, August 8 (Screengrab from Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso)
“Tumigil na po kayo nang pagpapagawa ng hindi kayo nagkokonsulta sa lokal na pamahalaan lalo na sa ilog (Please stop implementing projects without consulting the local government, especially when it involves the river),” Domagoso said.
During a press conference with Metro Manila mayors and San Miguel Corporation in Pasig City on Friday, August 8, he said the construction of several pumping stations, including the Sunog Apog facility in Tondo, failed to solve flooding because they were not planned in consultation with the City Hall.
“They can do whatever they want to do in the local government without even to the point of telling, asking permission, explaining the purpose of the project (They can do whatever they want in the local government without even reaching the point of informing, asking permission, or explaining the purpose of the project),” he said.
“Yan talaga naging problema dito, kaya nagsulputan yung multiple compensation na hindi gumagana (That’s really been the problem here, which is why multiple compensations that don’t even work have emerged),” Domagoso added.
He added that proper coordination could have reduced flood damage and prevented the recent rise in leptospirosis cases in Manila hospitals.
On Tuesday, August 5, the mayor also condemned the DPWH for announcing the closure of the southbound lane of the Dimasalang Bridge without securing permits or consulting city officials.
He issued a cease-and-desist order and warned that the city would confiscate DPWH equipment if the project pushed through without approval.
Domagoso stressed that projects should be planned with the local government to avoid wasted funds, defective facilities, and unnecessary disruption to residents.
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