Photo courtesy of Manila Bulletin

Residents living along creeks and rivers in the city are being relocated as part of a comprehensive flood mitigation strategy. The Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD) recently extended cash assistance of P10,000 to 37 families from Mambuloc Creek, Purok Balinday, Barangay 2, who demolished their homes voluntarily. The move aims to ensure their safety and prevent obstructions in drainage systems that pose risks during calamities.

The relocation is particularly focused on families affected by Typhoon "Tino." Among the relocated, 20 families have prequalified for lots in Progreso Village Relocation Site II, Barangay Vista Alegre, while the remaining 17 will utilize the financial assistance to find other accommodations. Mayor Greg Gasataya emphasized the priority was to make the relocation process smooth and humane, noting that the planned demolition was delayed to allow families to remain until after the holiday season.

Ireneo Longinos, a local community leader, expressed support for the initiative, highlighting the importance of securing safer living conditions. Meanwhile, Barangay 2 Chairwoman Emelda Banguanga has pledged to monitor the cleared zones, as ongoing efforts by the Department of Public Works and Highways continue. The City Engineer’s Office reported removing 42,500 kilograms of waste from the creek between July and November 2025 as part of the "Oplan: Kontra Baha" initiative launched last December.

Spearheaded by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, "Oplan: Kontra Baha" aims to clear and clean approximately 170 kilometers of waterways and 138 kilometers of drainage systems by June 2026. This wide-reaching operation reflects the city's commitment to reducing flood risks and enhancing safety for its residents, reported Manila Bulletin.

Key Takeaways

• 37 families from danger zones received cash aid, ensuring safer relocation.

• Oplan: Kontra Baha targets 308 kilometers of waterways and drainage.

• President Marcos Jr. emphasized comprehensive flood prevention measures.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now from Manila Bulletin 2026-01-16

 

 

The Philippines suffer so many natural disasters relating to flooding and storms, it is the largest atoll that these major storms hit as they're traveling west across the Pacific, and the low-lying areas seem to be incredibly prone to disaster.

I do like the people but I think the food is terrible, and the weather is extreme, so just another reason not to live there.