The Philippine government has proposed a budget of USD 4.627 billion (PHP 257.06 billion) for flood control in 2025, marking a significant investment in mitigating the country’s flood risks. This allocation is part of the Department of Budget and Management’s National Expenditure Program, which outlines funding for various infrastructure and public service sectors.
The bulk of the flood control budget, amounting to USD 4.50 billion (PHP 254.29 billion), is earmarked for the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) Flood Management Program. Key projects include improvements to flood control systems along major rivers such as the Pampanga and Agno River Basins, the Pasig-Marikina River, and the Cagayan River, which are crucial to mitigating the impact of seasonal typhoons and monsoon rains. Additionally, urban centers like Metro Manila, which are highly vulnerable to flooding due to inadequate drainage infrastructure, are also expected to benefit from these projects.
The budget also allocates funds for enhancing flood control in other critical areas, including parts of Visayas and Mindanao that have experienced severe flooding in recent years. These efforts are aimed at reducing the long-term economic impact of flooding on communities and infrastructure.
Overall, the flood control budget is a key component of the government’s broader infrastructure program, which also includes significant investments in transportation and communications projects.
(Source: ABS-CBN News)