The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) continues the implementation of Oplan Kontra Baha (OKB) in several flood-prone areas across the country as part of preparations for the coming rainy season.
According to the agency, operations include the clearing of canals and esteros, dredging of rivers, and the removal of silt, debris, and vegetation that obstruct water flow in drainage systems and waterways.
DPWH reported that activities have been carried out in several locations, including Sagop Creek in Naga City, Balihatar Creek in Las Piñas City, Matalahib Creek in Quezon City, Mambuloc Creek in Bacolod City, and the Pinacanauan–Cagayan River in Tuguegarao City. The work aims to restore the capacity of waterways to carry rainwater during heavy rainfall and reduce flooding in nearby communities.
Oplan Kontra Baha was launched as part of the government’s flood mitigation efforts following concerns raised over several flood control projects implemented during the tenure of former DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan. Among the issues cited were pumping stations that had been improperly positioned, with some installations obstructing the natural flow of water instead of improving drainage in flood-prone areas.
The government said Oplan Kontra Baha is also being rolled out in other areas experiencing recurring flash floods, including Cebu, Bacolod, Roxas City, Bulacan, Pampanga, Cavite, Laguna, Pangasinan, Cotabato, Davao, and Cagayan de Oro, as part of efforts to improve flood mitigation systems in urban and flood-prone communities nationwide.
DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon has conducted inspections in several flood-prone areas to review the condition of waterways, drainage systems, and pumping stations as Oplan Kontra Baha operations continue ahead of the rainy season.
