PH, Japan to implement key flood control programs: DPWH

FILE: Department of Public Works and (Photo: Department of Public Works and Highways, Philippines/ Facebook)

MANILA — The Philippines and Japan will be working together in the implementation of multi-billion worth flood control projects in the country.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Mark Villar revealed the strategic partnership between the two governments in connection with various projects, at the Third Philippines-Japan Joint Committee Meeting on Infrastructure Development and Economic Cooperation held on September 25.

Among the undertakings include the Paranaque Spillway (Tunnel) Project, the Cavite Industrial Area Flood Management Project and the Davao River Basin Flood Control Project.

“With the assistance of Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), we are now doing the feasibility study for the Paranaque Spillway Tunnel Project, a 9.2-km spillway which is expected to shorten flood inundation in the shoreline of Laguna de Bay and reduce flood damages in the area,” Villar said in a statement Thursday.

“The PHP10 Billion project, which will include a 3.3-km tunnel, is expected to start implementation in 2018,” he added.

Likewise, the DPWH chief presented the Cavite Industrial Area Flood Management Project, which is expected to protect 7,000 houses or 556 hectares along Cavite Industrial Area, covering Imus, San Juan, and Canas River Basins.

“Our JICA Loan for the financial assistance on the Cavity Industrial Area Flood Management Project is targeted to be approved by November 2017,” Villar said.

He also presented the Davao River Basin Flood Control Project, a Php2.23-billion project encompassing Davao River, Talomo River and Matina River.

“Masterplan and feasibility study for the Davao River Basin Flood Control Project is expected to start first quarter of 2018,” he said.

Villar added, “In the Philippines pursuit of ushering in the Golden Age of Infrastructure, we thank the Japanese government for being a great partner in our economic development by constantly providing us with development assistance, financing, and innovative technology.” (PNA)