Articles by Catherine S. Valente

Politics

Marcos: Oplan Kontra Baha program to reduce flooding in Metro Manila, nearby areas by 60%

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Wednesday launched a government program expected to reduce flooding in Metro Manila and nearby areas by 60 percent.Oplan Kontra Baha: Greater Metro Manila Waterways Clearing and Cleaning Operations at Balihatar Creek in Barangay San Dionisio, Parañaque City, the President said, would be maintained every year by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and was now part of agency’s Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses.'We will continue to do this, first part the Oplan, until June to July of next year. Even after that nine months, it will continue,' Marcos said.A total of 142.4 kilometers of rivers, creeks and esteros, and 333.15 kilometers of drainage systems throughout the metropolis will be covered by the program.This follows the widespread flooding caused by the twin typhoons, Tino (international name Kalmaegi) and Uwan (international name: Fung-wong), which battered several regions.