Manila: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has unveiled plans to construct detention basins in Quezon City, aiming to reduce flooding in Metro Manila. DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon announced the initiative during a Palace briefing, highlighting the department's coordination with Quezon City's local government unit (LGU) to facilitate the project.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DPWH intends to build these detention basins upstream to store floodwaters before they reach the San Juan River. Secretary Dizon explained that a site in Barangay Kaingin Bukid, located upstream of the San Juan River, is under consideration for temporarily holding floodwaters. The plan is to discharge the stored water back into the river once its water level subsides.
The construction of these basins is slated to begin this year and extend into the next, with the projects included in the budget for next year. Dizon emphasized the cooperation with the Quezon City LGU, noting that the primary challenge is securing the right-of-way for construction sites. He acknowledged the difficulty of identifying open spaces and private properties in the congested Metro Manila area where excavation can occur.
Dizon also mentioned that the Kaingin Bukid project is part of the 2027 budget, along with other proposed detention basins upstream of the San Juan River in Quezon City. The DPWH has previously collaborated with the Manila LGU on a similar plan to build a detention basin in Bustillos, Manila, to mitigate flooding along Espa±a Boulevard.
Secretary Dizon stressed the need for a holistic approach to address the flooding problem, while also adhering to the President's directive for swift action. He noted that flood mitigation efforts require time but assured that all initiatives are now coordinated with LGUs, reflecting the directives of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Dizon reiterated the importance of proper coordination with LGUs for flood control efforts, ensuring that all projects align with local master plans and receive necessary certifications from regional and local development councils.
