Mayor Jeannie backs PBBM's call for stricter flood project inspections
By Hannah Nicol
In photo: Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval and President Fredinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. (Photo from Mayor Jeanie Sandoval)
Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval expressed support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s order requiring all flood control projects to undergo inspection and receive approval from local government units (LGUs) before being declared complete.
In a statement released on Thursday, Sept. 18, Sandoval said the move is vital for flood-prone cities like Malabon, where residents continue to bear the brunt of constant flooding.
“Matagal nang hamon sa Malabon ang pagbaha, at malaking sakripisyo ang pagtitiis sa tagal bago matapos ang mga proyekto. Kaya’t mahalaga na siguruhin ang kalidad ng bawat proyekto para pangmatagalan ang benepisyo nito (Flooding has long been a challenge in Malabon, and residents have sacrificed so much while waiting for projects to be finished. That’s why it’s important to guarantee the quality of every project for long-term use),” she said.
The mayor also emphasized that proper methods and durable materials must be used in building flood control projects so that they truly serve their purpose and protect communities.
“Kaya’t nararapat lamang na ang mga ito ay gawin gamit ang de-kalidad na materyales at maayos na paraan para siguradong mapapakinabangan nang pangmatagalan (That is why these projects must be carried out using quality materials and proper methods to guarantee long-term usefulness),” Sandoval added.
The city was located on low-lying terrain, compounded by rapid urbanization and clogged waterways, making it one of the most flood-prone areas in Metro Manila.
The mayor said the President’s directive would help ensure that taxpayer money is well-spent and that residents feel the benefits of projects meant to safeguard them.