Marcos sets July deadline for Sunog Apog pumping station operations

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday directed government agencies to ensure the Sunog Apog Pumping Station in Tondo, Manila becomes operational by July, as part of efforts to ease flooding in low-lying communities in the capital.

Marcos also ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to regularly clean pumping stations to prevent clogging and ensure continuous operation.

During the inspection of the rehabilitation works at the facility, Marcos noted that three heavy-duty electromechanical pumps are currently operational.

He was joined by DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Don Artes, and Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso.

The inspection covered key components of the pumping station, including intake systems, pumping operations, discharge facilities, and control systems.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon earlier ordered a halt to certain repair works after it was discovered that the pumping station had not been operational since 2017.

Dizon also issued a show-cause order in September 2025 against DPWH-National Capital Region Director Gerard Opulencia over alleged irregularities linked to the project.

The order cited reports of worsened flooding in surrounding communities, lack of a building permit and power connection, and questions over additional funding allocations, including P94 million already set aside for upgrades and a proposed additional P200 million.

The Sunog Apog Pumping Station is part of the Blumentritt Interceptor System and serves low-lying communities in Manila and nearby areas of Quezon City.—MCG, GMA News