Marcos orders flood control in Bicol fast-tracked

To minimize the impact of typhoons and the looming La Niña on the Bicol region, President Marcos yesterday ordered the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to expedite flood control projects in what is considered one of the most disaster-prone areas in the country.

- HELEN FLORES

The President gave the directive in his speech during the distribution of aid to El Niño-hit farmers and fisherfolk in Legazpi City, Albay.

He also directed local government units to brace for La Niña, which is characterized by excessive rainfall.

The government has rolled out preparedness measures with the onset of the rainy season, the President assured the public.

"You (LGUs) must also be prepared for strong typhoons that may hit the country and possible flooding," he said in Filipino.

The President reminded local governments in Bicol to ensure there would be enough supply of food and other essential needs for those who would be displaced by weather disturbances.

In a speech in Pili, Camarines Sur earlier, Marcos ordered the DPWH to finish the flood control project at the Bicol River Basin to prevent massive flooding due to La Niña.

El Niño has ended but its impact on the country could continue at least in some parts, according to the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) in its latest report.