The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) launched a program to address the recurring massive flooding in the Province of Capiz.
Last February 12, DPWH Undersecretary for Special Concerns Charles Calima was in Capiz as part of DPWH’s “Oplan Kontra Baha”.
Calima told the local media he was directed by DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon to visit Capiz for the anti-flood program that has already been implemented in parts of Metro Manila and Bacolod City.
Calima met with Governor Fredenil “Oto” Castro and all local mayors at the Capiz Provincial Capitol and discussed solutions to the perennial flooding.
During the last quarter of 2025, many parts of the province including its capital of Roxas City suffered extensively from the impact of massive flooding with several fatalities and more than 10,000 residents affected.
According to Calima, Oplan Kontra Baha is a temporary intervention while awaiting the release of this year’s budget allocation for long-term flood control projects.
While comprehensive flood mitigation plans are still under review, Calima said the DPWH is currently recommending immediate measures such as clearing waterways, de-clogging drainage systems, and removing garbage along rivers and canals to improve water flow.
Mayor Katherine Belo shared that the local government unit (LGU) in Panitan town has conducted de-clogging operations. As these efforts remain insufficient, Belo suggested that DPWH should assist LGUs such as Panitan for river dredging by purchasing heavy equipment.
But without proper allocation for DPWH to purchase heavy equipment, Calima suggested LGUs can rent heavy equipment for de-clogging operations.
On the other hand, Castro expressed frustration over what he described as unfulfilled promises from the national government.
The governor mentioned the Panay River Basin Integrated Development Project (PRBIDP), the proposed mega dam that is supposed to have a flood control component. However, the project remains as a plan with no actual construction.
