Marcos launches 'Oplan Kontra Baha'

Initiative to cut flooding in Metro Manila by 60%

- By ARGYLL CYRUS GEDUCOS

President Marcos led on Wednesday, Nov. 12, the launch of "Oplan Kontra Baha," a large-scale flood mitigation program that aims to reduce flooding in Metro Manila by as much as 60 percent through continuous dredging, desiltation, and clearing of major waterways.

Speaking at the launch of the Greater Metro Manila Waterways Clearing and Cleaning Operations in Parañaque City on Wednesday, Marcos said the initiative was born out of studies showing that shallow spillways and accumulated garbage are the main causes of severe flooding.

"A big part of the flooding problem is caused by siltation. Our spillways are too shallow, while garbage blocks the water flow," he said.

He said the nine-month initial phase of the project will continue until mid-2026, but clearing and maintenance work will be sustained yearly.

"This cannot be done just once. We will keep doing this regularly,' he added.