San juan: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and the city government of San Juan will conduct a joint inspection on Wednesday of the voluntary clearing of Informal Settler Families (ISFs) in San Venancio St., Barangay San Perfecto, to mitigate flooding in the area.

According to Philippines News Agency, the DPWH stated that Secretary Vince Dizon, alongside Mayor Francis Zamora, will assess the voluntary clearing of eight residential structures built directly on top of a major drainage line along the street in the village, which is one of the city's most flood-prone areas. The clearing operation is scheduled at 7:30 a.m., near the San Perfecto Elementary School.

The families occupying these structures voluntarily agreed to vacate the site after it was determined that their houses obstructed rainwater flow, significantly contributing to flooding during heavy rains. All affected families have been transferred to prefabricated housing units at the staging area in Barangay Batis, which were constructed by the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) and formally opened last Nov. 18. They will occupy these units rent-free, paying for just electricity and water.

The residents have expressed gratitude for the alternative housing provided by the city government, noting that the clearing of structures above the drainage system is a crucial step toward easing the persistent flooding in San Venancio St.