San simon: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has started implementing solutions to alleviate the persistent flooding issues that have resulted in significant traffic congestion at the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX) in San Simon, Pampanga.
According to Philippines News Agency, Secretary Vince Dizon outlined the initial steps being taken, which include sealing water entry points from the Tulaoc River to the highway. "The problem here is that the floodwater has nowhere to go; it just circulates within the area. The solution is to block the water coming from the river and creek so that the volume here doesn't increase further. We will also conduct dredging operations - with the assistance of the NLEX Corporation - to deepen the river and allow more water to flow into it," Dizon stated during an inspection of the affected section.
In addition to sealing the entry points, DPWH is actively pumping out accumulated floodwaters from both sides of the expressway. Furthermore, they plan to install 300 units of FlexMac DT barriers, an Italian technology not previously used in the country, to replace traditional sandbags. "This flood wall technology is from Italy. It has not been used in the country. A non-concrete cube made of natural materials. The supplier will start sending units today," Dizon mentioned.
The department is also exploring the possibility of utilizing private land areas as water retention basins. Dizon expressed intentions to negotiate with landowners for permission to create water storage or detention basins. "We are looking for open lands, negotiate with the owners, and ask permission to dig, for us to create a water storage area or a detention basin," he said.
On Wednesday, Dizon met with private sector representatives and international partners to address the severe flooding that disrupted motorists at NLEX the previous week. Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) has committed to assisting local government units and agencies in enforcing measures to keep communities away from flood-prone areas. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez, Jr. emphasized the role of police units in maintaining peace and order during enforcement activities.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. previously instructed local government units to enforce no-build zones and existing laws to protect communities from flooding and other climate-related dangers. He urged vigilance against political pressure, favoritism, or corruption that could hinder these efforts. Nartatez affirmed that police assistance would remain focused on lawfulness and public safety.
