PamCham urges DPWH for flood control system across Pampanga
ANGELES CITY – The Pampanga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PamCham) has called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to spearhead a masterplan for flood mitigation in Pampanga following the severe flooding that left the province with over P308 million in damages due to persistent rains in July and August.
Rene Romero, PamCham’s director for infrastructure development, said it is crucial to develop a flood mitigation strategy to effectively manage the water flow and secure both urban and rural communities from future flooding. The masterplan also seeks to improve flood defenses and establish a more sustainable flood control system that also impacts the economy’s stability.
Romero said the appeal was a result of a meeting convened by Mayor Vilma Caluag of the City of San Fernando last August 6 which addressed the damage caused by Typhoon Carina and subsequent monsoon rains.
“We are writing to formally convey the concerns and recommendations raised during the meeting convened by the City Mayor of San Fernando on August 6, 2024, in response to the severe flooding caused by Typhoon Carina on July 24 and the subsequent monsoon rains on August 1,” Romero said in a letter addressed to DPWH.
During the meeting, DPWH assistant regional director Melquiades Sto. Domingo presented the flood mitigation plan for the City of San Fernando. However, Romero said the approach would not suffice as it is focused in Pampanga’s capital. Romero said it is essential to address the province-wide impacts of flooding which covers both upstream and downstream areas across Pampanga.
“To ensure a sustainable solution to the flooding challenges in our province, it is crucial that the DPWH leads the development of an integrated flood mitigation strategy encompassing both upstream and downstream areas,” Romero said.
“A contiguous plan covering the entire province is necessary to effectively manage water flow and protect both urban and rural communities from future flood risks,” he added.