DPWH fast-tracks clearing, dredging operations ahead of rainy season

THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is fast-tracking clearing and dredging operations to widen waterways and mitigate flooding ahead of the rainy season.

In a media release on Wednesday, DPWH said it is prioritizing low-lying and flood prone areas particularly in Metro Manila, Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, Tarlac, Cebu, Iloilo, Bacolod, Cagayan de Oro, and other areas in Visayas and Mindanao.

Under its flood mitigation program, the department said it is widening waterways to ensure continuous water flow and prevent flooding.

Separately, the DPWH said two additional mega pumps at the Wawang Pulo pumping station, a flood control facility in Valenzuela designed to divert floodwaters into Manila Bay, will be completed ahead of schedule.

“We are expediting our flood mitigation projects. This is supposed to be completed in August, but we are practically done. Beginning June, all nine pumps will be operational,” Public Works Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon said. — Ashley Erika O. Jose