Malacañang on Wednesday assured the public that all concerned government agencies are working together to prepare and protect communities from the impact of hazards related to the rainy season.
In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said key agencies have already been implementing various mitigating measures.
Castro said Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan confirmed that flood control projects are actively being constructed across the country, following President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen disaster resilience.
“Asahan po natin at maging lagi tayong handa sa pagbaha. Although hindi natin masasabing 100 percent agad na mababawasan ang pagbaha sa ating bansa, pero patuloy pa rin po ang pagsasagawa ng DPWH para po maibsan ang problema dito,” Castro said.
Among the completed initiatives is a 2,339.76-square-meter concrete slope protection project along the Bagac–Mariveles Road in Bataan, aimed at reducing risks related to landslides, soil erosion, and slope collapse.
The DPWH has also developed individual master plans for 18 major river basins, tailored to the specific geographic and hydrological needs of each location.
On weather monitoring and public alert systems, Castro said the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (DOST-PAGASA) launched its campaign “Kahandaan sa Bagyo at Baha, Solusyon sa Ligtas na Bayan” in observance of the Typhoon and Flood Awareness Week (TFAW).
To kick off the TFAW celebration, DOST-PAGASA has launched improvements to the National Hydro-Meteorological Observing Network (PANaHON) interactive platform and a centralized alert system, providing the public with easier access to critical and real-time weather advisories.
In support of food security, Castro said the Department of Agriculture (DA) assured the public that the country’s rice supply remains stable, and that measures are in place to safeguard agricultural production amid extreme weather events.
In addition, Casto said the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) is prepared to roll out feeding programs in flood-affected areas, while the Department of Health (DOH) is enforcing its rainy-season health campaigns dubbed “Taob, Taktak, Tuyo, at Takip” and “Alas Kwatro Kontra Mosquito.”
The Marcos administration’s unified approach to disaster response highlights its commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all Filipinos. | PND
