The Government of the Philippine will closely examine the Department of Public Works and Highways’ (DPWH) proposed PHP107.4-billion flood-control budget for 2027 to ensure that funds are allocated to necessary, feasible and legitimate infrastructure projects.
The priority will be given to the country’s 10 most flood-prone areas and major river basins, while unfinished flood-control projects should be completed before new projects are proposed. The review follows investigations into alleged irregularities involving flood-control projects, including projects reported as nonexistent, substandard or poorly prioritised.
Additionally, the government also called for a long-term national infrastructure master plan to provide continuity across administrations. Beyond conventional flood-control structures, he recommended projects such as floodways, water-impounding facilities and dams to manage excess rainfall and potentially support water supply during dry periods.
The proposed allocation forms part of the PHP7.2 trillion National Expenditure Program for 2027, with the government expected to approve projects that demonstrate a clear capacity to reduce flooding and pass scrutiny for irregularities.
