PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has pledged to address the flooding issue in the Davao Region effectively.
During a speech in Tagum City, Davao del Norte, at the Distribution of Presidential Assistance to Farmers, Fisherfolk, and Families, President Marcos announced that the government plans a comprehensive flood management system.
“We will strive to ensure that as soon as possible, no Filipino will suffer from floods or poverty. This is the vision for a new Philippines,” he stated.
The President directed the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to expedite the flood control project in the region. This initiative follows severe flooding in the Davao Region during the first quarter of the year, caused by a low-pressure area and shear line.
Following the flooding, the region, along with the rest of the country, faced El Niño conditions that impacted the livelihoods of farmers and fisherfolk.
“Yung flood control project ngayon, iba po ang design na aming ginagawa. Ang flood control project ngayon ay hindi lamang para sa flood control, nag-iipon din po tayo ng tubig para sa irigasyon, para sa fresh water supply ng ating ibat-ibang household. At lalagyan po natin ng solar para may makuha tayong kuryente na libre galing sa araw,” the President said
Beyond the flood control project, President Marcos also tasked the DPWH with completing other pending infrastructure projects in the region. These include the Mawab-Maragusan-Caraga Road, the Carmen-Tagum City Coastal Road, and the Mindanao Railway Project from Tagum to Digos, among others.
Members of the cabinet who accompanied the President included Mindanao Development Authority chairperson, Sec. Leo Tereso Magno, DA Secretary Francisco Laurel Jr., DILG Secretary Benhur Abalos, Special Assistant to the President Antonio Ernesto Lagdameo Jr., and DSWD Secretary Rex Gatchalian.
On Thursday, President Marcos distributed around P10 million worth of assistance to Davao del Norte, including farm equipment and boats.
