PAMPANGA — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and local officials in Pampanga have agreed on a comprehensive flood management plan combining immediate interventions with medium- and long-term projects to address the province’s persistent flooding.
The plan was discussed in a meeting led by DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, with Governor Lilia “Nanay” Pineda and local officials joining the discussions on measures to protect communities, major roads, livelihoods, and economic activity.
Pineda said the provincial government fully supports the proposed interventions, adding that mayors in the province’s 4th District are working with the DPWH to find solutions that can provide immediate relief while building longer-term protection against recurring floods.
IMMEDIATE FLOOD CONTROL MEASURES
Among the immediate interventions identified were closing gaps along the Tulaoc River using FlexMac flood barriers, dredging existing waterways to improve water flow, and pumping accumulated floodwater into waterways.
The meeting also focused on funding and urgent interventions for the San Fernando–Sto. Tomas–Minalin Tail Dike, the Setback Levee in San Simon, the Arnedo Dike in Macabebe, and portions of MacArthur Highway in Apalit.
Officials also discussed the damaged tail dike in Minalin, which could affect seven barangays and an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 residents.
The continuing rise of water along Quezon Road was also raised as a concern, particularly because the road serves as an alternative route when traffic becomes heavy or portions of the North Luzon Expressway become impassable due to flooding.
DETENTION BASINS EYED FOR MEDIUM TERM
For the medium term, the DPWH plans to establish detention basins in San Simon and other areas.
The basins would temporarily store excess floodwater before gradually releasing it into nearby waterways. The approach follows a “store, drain and release” system.
Officials said the basins could be located near rivers and areas with suitable slopes to facilitate drainage, with pumping systems used where necessary.
The stored water could also potentially serve as surface water and supplement irrigation supplies.
Dizon emphasized the need for cooperation among the provincial government and local government units, particularly in securing right-of-way and necessary permits. This would allow excavation and other works to begin once weather conditions improve.
MAJOR LONG-TERM PROJECTS
Among the long-term projects discussed were the Central Luzon–Pampanga Floodway Project, which includes a proposed 60-kilometer floodway; a 12,000-hectare ring dike project; the construction of silt or “sabo” dams in Nueva Ecija; and the Manila Bay Integrated Flood Control, Coastal Defense and Expressway Project, which is currently under pre-feasibility study.
Dizon cautioned that some of the major projects could take up to 20 years to fully implement.
He stressed the need for immediate action while permanent flood-control projects are being developed, particularly as recurring flooding continues to affect communities, transportation, and local economies.
Photo: Daniel Ombina/Pampanga PIO