DPWH implements flood control projects in Quezon City sans LGU approval

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has implemented flood control projects in Quezon City without approval from or coordination with the local government.

Mayor Joy Belmonte stated that her team is compiling a list of all such projects to evaluate their effectiveness and appropriateness, with at least 30 DPWH projects already inspected by the city's engineering department.

In 2020, the city council passed an ordinance requiring national agencies to coordinate project planning and implementation with the city.

Among those inspected were two pumping stations in District 1, as well as flood control and mitigation structures across the city.

The mayor cited specific examples, including a P49-million retaining wall in Barangay Commonwealth and an unfinished P95.99-million pumping station over Matalahib Creek in Barangay Talayan, which was found to be built in a 'non-building area' and is now recommended for scrapping after studies showed it worsened flooding.

Belmonte urged DPWH to allocate funds for detention basins instead of continuing these projects, as they may exacerbate flooding issues.

The city's engineering department reported that the ongoing projects could disrupt drainage and accessibility during heavy rains, emphasizing the need for cooperation between national and local governments in addressing long-term flood control solutions.