Manila: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) are finalizing the updated flood control master plans for the Pasig-Marikina and Cagayan River Basins. These plans aim to address the ongoing issue of widespread flooding in the areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain emphasized the urgency of completing the master plan reports, referencing the impact of past typhoons such as Ondoy in 2009 and Ulysses in 2020, which affected vulnerable regions in the National Capital Region and Cagayan Valley. Sadain mentioned that the plans are part of a response to President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to revise flood control strategies and expand infrastructure to combat increasing flood risks and climate change threats.

The updated master plan reports will be submitted to the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPDev) for review and approval. Pre-feasibility studies are slated to begin in early 2026. The proposed measures aim to support integrated water resources management and improve interagency coordination in Luzon.

The draft reports were presented by Sadain and JICA Senior Representative Takanori Morishima at the Bayleaf Hotel in Manila. Discussions included the phased implementation of structural countermeasures for the Pasig-Marikina River and a separate master plan for the San Juan River. Proposed solutions involve dredging, embankment improvements, and underground channels to alleviate flooding in Metro Manila.

For the Cagayan River Basin, a draft master plan presented by JICA Study Team Leader Takahiro Mishina includes constructing five flood control dams and developing cut-off channels and river improvements. JICA reaffirmed its commitment to the Philippines, emphasizing support for resilient and climate-adaptive flood control infrastructure.