PBBM, Mayor Leni to lead ‘Hands-on’ Flood Mitigation Inspection in Naga

Building on a shared commitment to disaster resilience, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo are set to conduct a high-level inspection of the city’s critical flood control infrastructure this Saturday, Feb. 21.

The visit, which the City Government of Naga describes as a working mission, will focus on the progress of “Oplan Kontra Baha,” a multi-agency desilting and drainage rehabilitation program aimed at fortifying the city against future calamities.

The President is expected to arrive in the morning, with his first stop at the Jesse M. Robredo (JMR) Coliseum. The facility, the city’s primary evacuation center, is slated for significant national funding for repairs following the President’s directive to address the damage seen during Tropical Storm Kristine.

“I have a strong suspicion that Sec. Vince [Dizon’s] recent visit reinforced this,” Mayor Robredo said in a media briefing today. “I previously requested a budget for this that was not approved, but the President saw the gravity of the situation himself. It looks like it is finally being prioritized.”

The Presidential convoy will also visit Sagop Creek, located behind Yashano Mall and Mayon Residences. Heavy equipment from the DPWH has been on-site since Tuesday to clear the waterway. Joining the President are top cabinet officials, including Housing Secretary Jose Ramon “Ping” P. Aliling and DPWH Usec. Charles Calima.

The City Government is also currently reviewing a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the DHSUD for a pioneer “rental housing” project in Barangay Lerma—a stilt-style design specifically engineered for flood-prone urban areas.

“The local media in Naga know this has been set since January 26, this is about service.” Robredo clarified. “If we can prove here in Naga that local and national cooperation can solve these problems, that is our contribution to the nation,” she added. | via Maida Boragay