In a proactive move to mitigate flooding and enhance public safety, the Department of Public Works and Highways – National Capital Region (DPWH-NCR), in coordination with its District Engineering Offices, has ramped up its comprehensive flood-control initiative, “Oplan Kontra Baha.”
The program, executed under the direct mandate of President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr., focuses on ensuring the continuous and efficient flow of water through the region’s primary drainage systems and waterways, particularly as the rainy season approaches.
As of the third week of April 2026, the DPWH-NCR reports significant progress in its maintenance and restoration efforts:
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Debris Removal: The agency achieved an impressive 111.58% of its weekly target, successfully hauling and disposing of over 5,140.09 cubic meters of waste and spoils from drainage systems.
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Waterway Desilting: Crews have completed 22.67% of the large-scale desilting operations, with over 39,807.42 cubic meters of silt removed from various vital waterways across the Metro.
To ensure the main thoroughfares of Metro Manila remain passable during heavy rains, “Oplan Kontra Baha” employs a multi-faceted approach, including:
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Estuary Cleaning & Dredging: Removing accumulated silt and trash from natural water outlets.
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Drainage Maintenance: Systematic declogging and cleaning of drainage inlets, laterals, and main lines.
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Manual & Mechanical Desilting: Utilizing both heavy machinery and manual labor to clear obstructions in tight urban spaces. “Our priority is the safety and orderliness of our communities. By maintaining the integrity of our drainage infrastructure now, we are preventing the logistical and personal hardships that flooding brings to the people of the National Capital Region,” the DPWH stated.
The public is advised that these operations will continue on a weekly basis. The DPWH-NCR remains committed to creating a more resilient and flood-free metropolis through consistent action and engineering excellence.
