DPWH seeks P84B for flood control projects for 2021

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has earmarked P84.38 billion for 2021 for the construction and maintenance of flood mitigation structures and drainage systems, and flood mitigation facilities within major river basins and principal rivers.

"If you look at the budget, we invested heavily in flood mitigation. We'll  continue to do so and I think that will help in mitigating the effects of La Niña," DPWH Secretary Mark Villar said during the Senate deliberation on the proposed P666.47 billion DPWH budget for next year.

Out of the P666.47 billion proposed budget, P643 billion will be spent for various capital outlays.

Villar made the remark after Senator Nancy Binay asked how prepared the country is for the La Niña.

The DPWH chief said they had been preparing for it and that several flood control projects are ongoing in Metro Manila and other areas around major river basins.

A total of 8,942 flood mitigation structures had been completed by the DPWH from July 2016 to May 2020, according to its presentation in the hearing.

Last month, PAGASA issued a La Niña alert and said there was a 70% chance that the Philippines will experience more rain than normal, especially in its eastern section.

The weather phenomenon would likely persist at least until January 2021, according to the Australian Bureau of Meteorology.

La Niña is seen to reverse the dwindling water level in dams but may also mean harm to areas susceptible to flood and landslides.—LDF, GMA News