NAPOCOR implements new flood prevention protocol for dams

The National Power Corporation (NAPOCOR) assured the public on Thursday that it will implement a measured and gradual release of dam water to prevent massive flooding as Severe Tropical Storm Kristine affects Luzon and parts of Visayas.

Under their new protocol, NAPOCOR aims to minimize flood risks by releasing water before dams reach spilling levels, unlike previous practices, giving local government units at least 24 hours' notice.

NAPOCOR manages 12 dams nationwide, including five major ones in Luzon: Angat Dam, Caliraya Dam, Ambuklao Dam, Binga Dam, and San Roque Dam.

During a Palace press briefing, NAPOCOR Flood Operations Manager Maria Teresa Sierra emphasized that they will release water only if heavy rainfall is expected to prevent flooding in downstream communities.

Sierra noted that this change in protocol aligns with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to dam operators on Wednesday to mitigate flood risks by releasing water ahead of anticipated heavy rains.