MANILA, Philippines – Central Luzon lawmakers have formed a new coalition to collectively address the worsening effects of climate change and persistent flooding in their districts, especially high tide flooding that has become a daily struggle during the rainy season.
The Central Luzon Climate Change and Flood Coalition was launched on Monday, July 8, during a consultation meeting held at Imelda Aguado Street, Malacañang. The initiative was spearheaded by 4th District Pampanga Representative Dr. Anna York Bondoc, who also serves as president of the Central Luzon Bloc.
Bondoc’s proposal to unite legislators around shared climate challenges was immediately supported by fellow representatives, including Cong. Linabelle Villarica (Meycauayan and Obando), Cong. Agay Cruz, Cong. Danny Domingo (representing Calumpit, Hagonoy, Malolos, and Paombong), and Cong. Abet Garcia of Bataan.
“Our districts face Manila Bay and suffer daily from rising sea levels and land subsidence. Even during high tide, flooding disrupts lives. We hope to find solutions not just for one, but for all,” Bondoc said.
The coalition aims to convene relevant government agencies urgently to coordinate planning and resource mobilization. Lawmakers also expressed gratitude to Speaker Martin Romualdez, who committed to helping them secure funding for long-term interventions.
National Unity Party Chairman Ronnie Puno also emphasized the importance of unity in tackling urgent local needs, echoing support for the coalition’s cross-district approach.
The consultation meeting was attended by members of the Central Luzon Bloc and congressmen from Southern Tagalog provinces including Laguna, Batangas, and Cavite — areas also affected by coastal flooding and climate vulnerabilities.