Manila: The construction of flood mitigation structures along the Marikina River is halfway complete, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) reported on Monday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon announced in a social media post that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed the department, in collaboration with the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), to expedite the construction of these critical flood mitigation structures, which are currently 53 percent finished.

Dizon highlighted that the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project (PMRCIP) has already demonstrated its effectiveness by preventing the river from overflowing, thereby protecting the residents of Marikina and Pasig from severe flooding amid the recent heavy rainfall. The project encompasses the construction of flood gates, pumping stations, and additional structures designed to manage water flow at the Manggahan Floodway.

Additionally, he pointed out that the initiative has successfully reduced the flood-prone areas within the Pasig-Marikina River Basin by approximately 63 percent. The specific enhancements on the lower Marikina River section are being executed under three contract packages, which include the construction of the Manggahan Control Gate Structure, one flood gate, and one sluice gate at the confluence of Cainta and Taytay Rivers.

Part of the project also involves river improvement works covering 7.95 kilometers of the Marikina River. This undertaking aims to regulate water flow, prevent the river from overflowing, and mitigate flooding risks. The project is slated for full completion by 2031.