Floodwaters have become a daily struggle for over 100 families in Barangay Poblacion Oeste in Dagupan City, especially those near the Careenan Creek in Sitio Macario.

“Baha palagi, hindi nawawalan ng tubig. Araw-araw po,” Virgie Robosa, a resident, said.

The floods are worsened by heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon.

Some residents have raised their houses to avoid water damage.

Others, especially children and the elderly, can barely leave their homes due to slippery, garbage-filled streets.

Barangay officials are aware of the ongoing problem and are working closely with the city government.

“’Yung sinasabi nila sa City Engineering, kay Engr. Josephine Corpuz, sabi po nila re-construction ng drainage system. Tataasan ito, lilinisan, iba-backhoe,” Barangay Chairman Mark Anthony Gutierrez said.

He said addressing the flooding is now a top priority. The barangay is asking for assistance from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and national government officials.

The proposed drainage project is expected to cost around P50 to P60 million.

Health monitoring is now ongoing in the area due to risks of leptospirosis and dengue. Officials also continue to conduct “Operation Sitio” to reduce the flooding.