DPWH lacks integrated flood control plan despite funding

The Philippines lacks an integrated flood control master plan despite significant funding allocated over the years, according to DPWH Secretary Manny Bonoan during a Senate hearing on Thursday.

Bonoan admitted that while several river basin master plans are being updated to account for climate change, these efforts remain unaligned and do not constitute a comprehensive national plan.

Sen. Imee Marcos questioned the lack of coordination between local government units' separate flood control projects, highlighting their failure to provide long-term solutions to flooding issues.

Marcos emphasized that without an integrated master plan, billions allocated to flood control are being misused, with feasibility studies taking precedence over actual project implementation.

DPWH aims to continue and complete ongoing flood management projects efficiently, with the president ordering the creation of a holistic program including water impounding facilities.

Due to recent weather events like Super Typhoon Carina, a state of calamity has been declared in the National Capital Region and nearby provinces.