Vice President Sara Z. Duterte released a statement on Thursday underscoring the critical need for effective leadership and flood control infrastructure in the Philippines. Her impassioned plea stemmed from personal experiences with devastating floods in Davao City.
Recalling the impact of these events, she said, “I have experienced flooding twice at my parents’ house… Our belongings were damaged, and the environment was left in ruins. I have walked through chest-deep floodwaters and eventually had to swim.”
“As a former mayor, I witnessed the tragic loss of 30 lives due to a flash flood, and the pain from that experience still lingers,” Duterte said.
Using her position, resources, and platform, Duterte aims to amplify the voices of fellow Filipinos who feel unheard. “I am here to show our government officials how to lead effectively,” she declared.
During her tenure as mayor, Duterte advocated for a comprehensive study on flood control and drainage for Davao City, urging the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA XI) to conduct the necessary research.
“This was to ensure that the City Engineer’s Office and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) would have a concrete plan to follow rather than inventing projects,” she explained.
She highlighted the achievements made under the administration of former President Rodrigo Duterte regarding flood planning. The Master Plan and Feasibility Study for Flood Control, initiated in September 2016 and published in July 2023, serves as a crucial framework for addressing the city’s flooding issues.
Duterte urged the government to fund infrastructure projects that align with this master plan, questioning whether there are still reservations about these initiatives simply because she was mayor when they were developed.
“Leadership is about faithfulness to the oath of office. It is about dedicated service to the people,” she asserted.
According to Duterte, leaders must remain steadfast in their commitments: “Leaders should only say one thing — that ‘it is done.’ They should not be swayed by cash, cocaine, or champagne, and they certainly should not be seen toasting with champagne glasses.”
In closing, she reiterated her belief that “We, Filipinos, deserve better. We, Filipinos, should be the best.”
She also expressed gratitude to the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Japanese government for their support in addressing Davao City’s challenges, stating, “You are the best.”
