The Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the Iloilo City government are set to enforce stricter regulations and restoration measures to prevent flooding in Jaro.
The move followed an investigation by the DENR-Environmental Management Bureau Region 6 into flooding that affected several barangays earlier this year.
House of Representatives Committee on Suffrage and Electoral Reforms chairperson, Lanao del Sur 1st District Rep. Zia Alonto Adiong, on Saturday expressed his committee’s firm resolve to produce a consolidated version of the Anti-Political Dynasty Bill that is not only constitutionally sound but, more importantly, acceptable and beneficial to the Filipino nation.
“As of this writing, there are at least 14 versions of the proposed Anti-Political Dynasty Bill pending before our committee. Like any other proposed legislation, the committee members will thoroughly deliberate on each of these measures during our hearings. We welcome and encourage the views, suggestions, and recommendations of our colleagues in the House of Representatives so we can arrive at the best possible version for our country,” Adiong said in a statement sent to the media.
In a recent dialogue with House Speaker Faustino “Bodjie” Dy III, Adiong emphasized that the committee will bring the discussion to the grassroots level to ensure genuine public participation.
“The Filipino people must have real ownership of this process. We will conduct extensive public consultations and hearings nationwide so every voice can be heard and considered,” he said.
The Anti-Political Dynasty Bill is among the priority measures identified by the House leadership under Dy.
This commitment was further reinforced when President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. formally requested Congress to prioritize the immediate passage of an enabling law to implement genuine political reform.
Adiong assured the public that the committee remains fully committed to delivering a measure that upholds democratic principles and promotes political inclusivity. said reclamation and backfilling linked to a bike lane access road project in Barangay Tagbak significantly contributed to the flooding.
The probe found that construction narrowed the natural alignment of Buntatala Creek, obstructing water flow and causing overflow into nearby communities.
To mitigate future flooding, the DENR proposed slope protection, stricter compliance with environmental rules, and closer coordination between the DENR and the DPWH on projects affecting waterways.
