P1.6B OKd for flood control projects

The Department of Budget and Management released P1.59 billion to boost flood-control measures in Metro Manila, particularly for the rehabilitation of 12 water pumping stations in the metropolis.

“The recently approved funds will allow us to enhance the capacity of our pumping facilities and upgrade them as needed, well before the rainy season,” Budget Secretary Florencio B. Abad yesterday said in a statement.

Abad said the 12 pumping stations that the fund covered had been in operation for an average of 34 years.

He said these facilities would undergo repairs, including the upgrade of pumps, engines, generators, floodgates, auxiliaries and other electrical components.

Citing a shortlist from the Metro Manila Development Authority, Abad said the facilities include those in Libertad and Tripa de Galina in Pasay City; Quiapo, Pandacan, Valencia, Binondo, Aviles, and Paco in Manila; Makati and Sta. Clara both in Makati, and Balete and Arroceros in Quezon City.

“This year, we are seriously investing in infrastructure upgrades for our flood-control strategy, as well as encouraging implementing agencies to execute their anti-flooding interventions as early as the summer season,” Abad said.

In January, the budget chief said the DBM had made available P8.1 billion for flood control and irrigation projects, including P5 billion for a package of projects in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.