DENR, DHSUD discuss incentives for developers to integrate flood control measures

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) is discussing with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development ways to encourage developers to integrate flood control measures into their projects, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s pronouncement against corruption in flood control projects.

DENR Secretary Raphael Lotilla mentioned during a post-SONA briefing that they are considering incentivizing housing and subdivision developers who incorporate cisterns, which store water for use during shortages, to reduce pressure on drainage systems during heavy rainfall.

Lotilla cited the example of Bonifacio Global City in Taguig, where installed cisterns have reduced flood vulnerability despite heavy rainfall.

Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla emphasized that waste mismanagement exacerbates flooding issues and highlighted provisions in local government codes that hinder effective solid waste disposal planning.

Remulla stressed the need to revisit the Local Government Code for a more holistic approach to garbage disposal, noting inefficient planning over the past 30 years has led to ineffective collection systems in urban areas.