High urbanization contributes to flooding problems in Bataan

BALANGA CITY, Bataan – In support of the national government’s program of safeguarding the renowned Manila Bay, Governor Albert Garcia has disclosed the rehabilitation program of Manila Bay and other water outlets would improve the environmental impact of swelling of rain waters which have been attributed to massive obstruction of waterways and clogging of drainage systems to nearby Manila Bay.
Governor Garcia has perceived high urbanization pace and the upsurge of informal dwellers along the shoreline areas and other water tributaries have been identified to be the principal contributors to flooding in the province’s coastal communities.
The provincial executive is optimistic about the current flood control and anti-pollution programs including the transfer of informal settlers being worked out by the local engineering and public works offices which efficiently conform with existing public works criteria and unified restoration actions of the government agencies in the Manila Bay periphery
He said the immediate restoration of rivers and creeks to their former status, retrieval of debris and prevent disposal of toxic waste, demolition of illegally constructed houses, buildings, fishponds and other encroachment of waterways may enhance the creation of public-private partnership and investment center.
Meanwhile, Engineer Enrique Yuzon, provincial engineer, has suggested the allocation of funds for the setting up of strategically located pumping stations and construction of diversionary water routes in flood –prone districts are absolutely necessary to neutralize the intensity of rain waters.