Lawmaker wants long-term solutions for flooding

SAN PEDRO CITY — A number of proposals such as improving the city’s drainage system, sewerage, construction of pumping stations and flood gates leading to the rivers up to Laguna Lake were discussed during a meeting between local government units and Representative Ann Matibag on Saturday here .

“One of the biggest problems facing the city today is the perennial problem of flooding every time there is a typhoon. Therefore, an inter-agency meeting is being convened to find solutions,” said Matibag, calling for a meeting between the local population. government units.

Matibag, together with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), San Pedro City Engineers and Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) gathered at the Silid Quatro SAX in Barangay San Antonio in San Pedro City during the meeting.

During the severe Tropical Storm Kristine, 11 of the total 27 barangays in the city were flooded, especially the areas near Laguna Lake. Floods forced people to evacuate to evacuation centers.

The flooding caused by the severe typhoon affected businesses, properties, school activities, economic growth and the health of city residents.

“I thank the DPWH, NDRRMC, our engineers and LLDA for their suggestions, and I am hopeful that these will be acted upon quickly to resolve the flooding,” the lawmaker said.

Matibag, who will run unopposed for another term in Congress, and the rest of the interagencies also shared another possible solution, which is to filter rainwater for the people’s use.

“I will ensure that we maximize the use of government resources to realize these projects. I look for unity and the cooperation of all to make them a reality,” Matibag said.

Matibag and her husband, attorney Melvin Matibag, and various LGU agencies are currently working to help the city residents recover from the shock of Kristine’s attack.