Lubao: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday directed the installation of barriers and the construction of a Sabo Dam upstream of the Sto. Cristo Dam to prevent debris from blocking the facility and causing floodwaters to overflow into nearby areas.

According to Philippines News Agency, Marcos issued the directive after inspecting the Sto. Cristo Dam at Barangay Sta. Rita in Lubao, Pampanga. He clarified that the dam was not damaged but was blocked by debris, including logs, which caused water to divert from its intended path. Marcos noted that the blockage resulted in water finding an alternate route, damaging a wall and contributing to the collapse of a house along the river.

The government plans to rebuild the damaged wall and install a Sabo Dam upstream as a long-term measure to prevent debris from reaching and blocking the dam. Marcos emphasized that barriers would also be installed as an immediate response to ensure that logs, debris, and other materials would not reach the dam. He stated that similar measures would be implemented at other dams where practical and appropriate.

Meanwhile, Marcos commented on the traffic conditions along the North Luzon Expressway (NLEX), noting improvements, particularly on the northbound lane, where travel time had decreased to about 45 minutes. However, the southbound lane remains affected by flooding. Marcos explained that pumping water from the southbound portion remains challenging due to the area's lower elevation and already high surrounding water levels.

He assured the public that the government is exploring other options, including excavating areas where flooded waters could be redirected away from the highway. The president expressed optimism that a solution would be found to manage the situation effectively.