The success of Oplan Kontra Baha hinges on strong coordination among the national government, local government units, and the private sector, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said as he led the launch of the major flood control initiative aiming to cut Metro Manila flooding by 60 percent through sustained dredging and waterway clearing.
Speaking at the launch of the Greater Metro Manila Waterways Clearing and Cleaning Operations in Parañaque City on Wednesday, Nov. 12, Marcos said the initiative was born out of studies showing that shallow spillways and accumulated garbage are the main causes of severe flooding.
“Malaking bahagi sa flooding ay ang siltation—masyado nang mababaw ang ating mga spillway, pangalawa, ay ang basura na nagkukumpol-kumpol para hindi na nga makadaan,” 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.
“Hindi ito maaaring gawin na minsan lang. Ito ay patuloy nating gagawin,” he added.
The President emphasized that the program’s success depends on the joint efforts of the national government, local government units, and the private sector.
“Hindi kaya ng national government lamang. Hindi kaya ng LGU lamang. Hindi kaya ng private sector lamang,” he said.
Marcos particularly cited business leaders Manny Pangilinan and Ramon Ang for volunteering manpower and heavy equipment to assist in the desilting and cleaning operations.
He said Oplan Kontra Baha will also be implemented in other flood-prone areas, citing results from Project NOAH and consultations with local leaders nationwide.
“We will also bring Kontra Baha to Cebu, Bacolod, Roxas City, Bulacan, Pampanga, Cavite, Laguna, Pangasinan, Cotabato, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and other places na madalas na mabaha,” he said.
He added that the government will coordinate closely with LGUs to identify priority zones for dredging and waterway rehabilitation. (Argyll Geducos)
