Manila: The government, through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the private sector discussed immediate solutions to the severe flooding along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX).

According to Philippines News Agency, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon, former Secretary Rogelio Singson, and officials from the Toll Regulatory Board and NLEX Corp., along with Japanese consultant Nippon Koei - CTI Engineering, have proposed several measures to address the flooding issues on the expressway during heavy rains.

One of the immediate solutions proposed includes the installation of sheet piles to prevent water from the Tulaoc River from spilling onto the expressway. Additionally, high-capacity pumps will be deployed by the DPWH and Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to drain accumulated floodwaters.

Plans also include deepening the Tulaoc River to serve as a catchment area for the pumped water, thereby preventing overflow onto the expressway during high tide or periods of continuous heavy rainfall. Secretary Dizon emphasized the importance of coordination between the private sector and the government, especially with more typhoons expected in the coming weeks.

The meeting was prompted by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to prevent a repeat of the traffic gridlock caused by massive flooding due to heavy monsoon rains over the weekend. Travelers headed for Northern Luzon were stranded for several hours along the San Simon, Pampanga portion of the NLEX due to the flooding.