Marcos calls for updated hazard maps

In the aftermath of the destructive flooding caused by Tropical Storm Enteng and as the threat of another typhoon in the next few days looms, President Marcos has called for the updating of flood hazard maps, citing changes in the course of flood waters.

-  ALEXIS ROMERO

“Although we already have it, we still have to (update flood hazard maps),” Marcos said. “It’s an old plan and it was relevant for maybe five, six, maybe even more, maybe 10 years ago. The weather has changed. So, we have to revise it to make sure that it is addressing the challenges that the new weather is bringing.”

“We will just keep responding. But at the same time, we are not only sending relief goods, we are very, very busy planning the large-scale, long-term plan,” the Chief Executive added.

Marcos said it has become very difficult for the weather bureau to forecast the “very changeable” weather.

“It’s that big a change... That is what we have to deal with... And I think we’ll be able to manage it but we have to come up with new strategies, new long-term solutions that might take a little time before they take effect but we will rush it as quickly as possible,” he added.

During a situation briefing on the impact of Enteng in Antipolo City last Friday, Marcos asked officials about the cause of the flooding, even if it was not as heavy as during previous typhoons.