The National Economic Development Authority (NEDA) Board yesterday approved extensions and cost adjustments for two major anti-flood projects, in line with the government’s flood-mitigation efforts.
The projects, the Cavite Industrial Area Flood Risk Management Project and the Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project, were revised to address delays and expanded needs in the wake of recent weather challenges.
In discussing the Cavite project, President Ferdinand Marcos, who also serves as NEDA chair, noted that additional elements like housing were not part of the initial plan.
“I think maybe the detailed engineering had to compensate for weather changes. And then the housing, housing was not part of the original estimate,” the President said.
He also acknowledged that costs would rise, mainly on the local side, but confirmed that they remain within financial guidelines.
With this approval, the cost of the Cavite project will increase by 122.79%, from PHP9.89 billion to PHP22.03 billion.
The board also approved a 65-month extension for the project, pushing the original completion date from April 2024 to September 2029.
Changes to the scope include the widening of diversion channels and the addition of drainage channels, aimed at reducing flood risks for the San Juan River Basin and nearby areas in Cavite.
As of September 30, the Cavite project reported a 44.21% completion rate with a fund utilization of PHP3.50 billion, despite delays due to project complexity and adverse weather impacts.
The Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project, Phase IV, which targets flood mitigation in Metro Manila, saw an approved budget increase of 74.32% — from PHP33.09 billion to PHP57.69 billion — along with a 63-month extension, extending completion from December 2025 to March 2031.
This phase will improve channel designs along the Middle Marikina River, modify drainage facilities, and add structural work to handle higher water levels, especially critical for flood-prone areas in Pasig, Marikina, Quezon City, Taytay, and Cainta.
President Marcos raised concerns about whether the design takes into account evolving climate risks, referencing recent typhoons that pushed water levels close to spillover.
Public Works and Highways Secretary Manuel Bonoan assured the President that the project’s current design has so far prevented spillovers during recent storms.
In addition to the flood control projects, the NEDA Board approved the Philippine International Exhibition Center Project and the acquisition of 40 fast patrol boats, supported by official development assistance.
