DPWH chief hits ‘inadequate’ flood control infra, cites failure during Tino

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon on Nov. 5 denounced Cebu’s flood control projects for failing to manage the flooding during the Typhoon Tino onslaught.

During his visit to flood-hit areas, Dizon reported that these flood-related infrastructures were inadequate and did not serve their intended purpose. 

As of November 6, at least 100 people have been confirmed dead in Cebu, while dozens still remain missing.

“I think we have clearly answered that question — obviously, they did not (function). Poorly planned, poorly executed, and we don’t know if there’s any foul play involved,” Dizon stated,  emphasizing the irregularities of the project.

He identified that the upstream catchment system and dams were never constructed, which contributed to the massive overflowing of the rivers. 

“For downstream communities along major river systems, the key solution is upstream. We should have built dams,” Dizon explained. 

The DPWH chief vows for accountability and implementation of more corrective measures, stating that there must be a complete reexamination and redesign, following the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino. 

“Dapat may managot…We have to start building the right projects. This should have been done decades ago,” he said.

“We don’t know who or why. That will be up to the investigators to find out,” Dizon highlighted.

According to the Presidential Communications Office (PCO), Cebu is among the provinces with most flood control projects, citing 414 constructions worth P26.7 billion from 2022 to 2025. 

However, the majority of these projects failed to protect communities from the flooding as major waterways, including the Butuanon River and Mananga River which received the largest funding, overflowed, dragging vehicles and debris.

The Investment Coordination Committee (ICC) and DPWH’s internal audit will do an investigation to verify whether the approved project was carried out correctly. 

While investigation begins, Dizon assured Cebu of full national support for both emergency response and long-term rehabilitation.

“We will help rebuild as fast as possible,” Dizon noted.