Senate to scrutinize flood control budget after TS Trami

Senate President Francis Escudero announced that the Senate will closely examine the flood control programs within the proposed 2025 national budget following the devastating impact of severe tropical storm Trami.

Escudero stated that rising sea levels and floodwaters necessitate higher appropriations and a greater budget for climate adaptation measures, emphasizing that flood control is only one component of this.

The recent storm, locally known as Trami, has resulted in at least 100 deaths, over half a million displaced people, and 36 missing individuals, according to the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.

Greenpeace Philippines described Trami as the "third highly devastating" weather event to hit the Philippines in 2024, affecting numerous areas across the country.

The budget for flood control projects saw an increase from PHP291.2 billion in 2023 to PHP353 billion in 2024, though the proposed budget for 2025 under the DPWH is PHP303 billion.

Despite increases in flood mitigation budgets by the Marcos administration, Escudero questioned their adequacy against a changing climate and past neglect.

He emphasized that the Senate will ensure the 2025 budget includes preventive measures, adequate resources for rehabilitation, and effective response strategies for future calamities.