Scope and Objectives of Flood Management
Flood control strategies must extend beyond traditional reliance on dikes and protective structures as a last defense. The plan emphasizes establishing a comprehensive system of upstream defenses, including multi-purpose catchment basins and impounding reservoirs, integrating ecological balance with developmental needs.
Integration with Other Water Resource Uses
Flood control programs are to be aligned with requirements for irrigation, power generation, and water supply, while prioritizing forest and watershed management to ensure a sustainable approach to ecosystem protection.
Department of Public Works, Transportation and Communications (DPWTC) as Coordinator
DPWTC is designated as the lead coordinator for developing and executing flood control initiatives. It will establish a dedicated Task Force under the Secretary’s Office, centered on the Bureau of Public Works Water Resources (Hydrology) Division, supplemented by experts from government and private sectors.
Mandates of the Task Force
- Develop a 10-year program for catchment basin and reservoir development focusing on flood mitigation, irrigation, power, and water supply in major river basins including Pampanga, Agno, and Cagayan.
- Review and update the Metropolitan Manila Flood Control and Drainage Program.
- Construct and utilize physical and mathematical models to assess different flood management schemes.
Coordination with Public Highways and Railways
The Department of Public Highways and Philippine National Railways must align their infrastructural projects with Task Force guidance, ensuring that bridges, culverts, and drainage systems facilitate unobstructed floodwater flow to prevent blockage and waterway constriction.
Soil Conservation and Reforestation Efforts
The Departments of Natural Resources and Agriculture will jointly implement soil conservation, reforestation, and erosion control programs, focusing on major watersheds and integrating these efforts with dam and reservoir designs that support fishery development.
Budget and Funding
NEDA, together with the Budget Commission and Department of Finance, shall allocate a total of five billion pesos over ten years, with an initial budget of one billion pesos. Strategies to attract additional local and international funding sources are mandated.
Mapping and Survey Support
The Department of National Defense, through the Philippine Air Force and Bureau of Coast and Geodetic Survey, will supply necessary maps and undertake aerial surveys when required to assist in planning and implementation.
Drainage in Irrigation Areas
The National Irrigation Administration is responsible for ensuring effective drainage facilities within and surrounding their irrigation networks.
Local Government and Community Participation
Local governments, primarily barangays, must be consulted to incorporate local knowledge and experiences relating to flooding, erosion, and water scarcity into the planning and execution of programs.
Financial Responsibility and Appropriations
Each agency involved shall finance their respective expenditures through their existing resources, appropriately reflected in their budget appropriations. Collaboration and resource optimization are expected across involved agencies.