NIA welcomes Senate probe on Magat Dam water release protocols

The National Irrigation Administration (NIA) welcomes a proposed Senate probe into Magat Dam's water release protocols, which are partly blamed for the widespread flooding in Cagayan and Isabela after Typhoon Ulysses.

NIA Administrator Ricardo Visaya stated that the probe will be an opportunity for the agency to review their operations and protocols to prevent similar incidents.

Visaya reiterated that the NIA followed existing protocols in releasing water from the dam.

He clarified that current protocols allow water discharge two to three days before a typhoon arrives.

Visaya also confirmed that the NIA maintained water levels at 188 to 191 meters, which is near the spilling level of 193 meters, in accordance with protocols.

The NIA previously admitted that Magat Dam's water release contributed to the flooding, alongside other tributaries of the Cagayan River.