Manila: The Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources stated on Friday that the recent flash flood in Nepal serves as a stark illustration of how a single natural event can trigger a series of cascading hazards. MGB Assistant Director Karlo Quea±o explained that the disaster was precipitated by a 600-meter section of glacier and associated debris collapsing from a height of 5,200 meters above sea level, which led to a magnitude 5.2 earthquake and the release of water into the valley below.
According to Philippines News Agency, the impact of the collapse resulted in water levels rising up to 45 meters, rushing downstream at speeds of up to 70 kilometers per hour. Quea±o noted that this triggered a sequence of events, including a flash flood and debris flow toward lower areas, particularly affecting the Lhende Khola River, a tributary of the Bhote Koshi River. The presence of communities near these rivers exacerbated the disaster's impact.
Quea±o warned that similar events could occur in the Philippines, despite the country not having glaciers. He explained that heavy rain or earthquakes could trigger landslides, with debris blocking rivers and causing water to accumulate upstream. Once the blockage fails, the accumulated water and debris could rush downstream, posing significant risks to nearby communities.
He emphasized the importance of keeping communities away from flood-prone areas, particularly river floodplains. For existing infrastructures, he recommended flood adaptation measures, such as constructing living spaces on higher floors. MGB uses geohazard mapping to identify and communicate risks from natural disasters like rain-induced landslides and floods. This mapping helps local government units with barangay-level risk assessments during severe weather advisories.
The bureau also assists in urban development planning to ensure safe zoning practices. Quea±o stressed the need for adaptation practices, such as maintaining buffer zones and implementing nature-based solutions like tree planting. However, he cautioned that tree planting alone cannot mitigate flood and landslide risks. He noted that even forested areas could be susceptible to landslides if tree roots exacerbate existing fractures in the landscape.
Quea±o concluded that preparation should encompass potential secondary hazards, as climate change increases the frequency and intensity of weather events leading to landslides.
Meanwhile, Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III underscored the urgency of protecting natural defenses like forests and watersheds against severe weather conditions. In a news release, Dy highlighted the need to strengthen efforts to protect critical ecosystems and address factors contributing to flooding, particularly in Metro Manila and surrounding areas.
Dy emphasized that flood control efforts should integrate infrastructure, environmental protection, and disaster resilience. The technical working group of the House Committee on Government Enterprises and Privatization has resumed discussions on the proposed Sierra Madre Mountain Range Authority (SMMRA). This body would manage the Sierra Madre Mountain Range and oversee its ecological governance, promoting a comprehensive approach to conservation and sustainable development.
The proposed Sierra Madre Master Plan would adopt a science-based, ecosystem-oriented, and climate-resilient strategy for the mountain range's protection. The plan prioritizes nature-based solutions to address environmental challenges. Dy stressed that protecting the mountain range should include providing sustainable livelihoods for local communities, ensuring they become partners in conservation efforts.
The proposed creation of the SMMRA has gained priority status in the Legislative-Executive Development Advisory Council, marking a significant step toward establishing a long-term framework for protecting the Sierra Madre.
