The Philippines’ ambition to become an upper-middle-income country cannot be attained without addressing its persistent flooding issues, says House Committee on Appropriations Vice Chairperson and Marikina 2nd District Representative Stella Quimbo. During the House panel deliberations on the proposed 2025 national budget, Quimbo urged the Development Budget Coordination Committee (DBCC) to revisit and enhance the Philippines’ flood control plan. She highlighted that flood management is crucial for economic growth and investor confidence.
“How can we aim to be an upper-middle-income country by 2028 or the 14th richest country by 2078 if we can’t even manage floods? Who would invest when there’s a risk that all investments could be washed away by floods?” Quimbo remarked.
Quimbo emphasized the necessity of a permanent solution to flooding. She recalled Typhoon Ondoy in 2010, indicating that despite plans devised then, similar devastation occurred in 2024 with Typhoon Carina. The Department of Finance estimated that this recent typhoon caused approximately P2.4 billion in damages to agriculture and infrastructure in Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
Finance Secretary Ralph Recto suggested a focused regional approach to flood control funding. “If we’re allocating roughly P365 billion for flood control nationwide, we should prioritize regions like Metro Manila, which contributes 30% to the GDP. Solve Metro Manila’s problem first, then move to the next region. Dividing the budget across regions dilutes effectiveness,” Recto proposed.
Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman supported the need for an updated and regular review of the flood control master plan, ideally every three years, especially in metropolitan and suburban areas. She advocated for integrated water resource management, improved flood information systems, non-structural measures, and multi-use runoff utilization.
National Economic and Development Authority Secretary Arsenio Balisacan stressed the importance of continuity in implementing flood control plans across different administrations. He advocated for a holistic government approach and the creation of a Department of Water to streamline efforts, as the current fragmented approach involves multiple agencies handling various water-related issues.
For the Philippines to achieve its upper-middle-income status goal, Quimbo’s call to action underscores the urgent need for comprehensive and sustained flood control measures. This strategic focus not only protects investments but also ensures long-term economic stability and growth.
