Business Bayani PH

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) are joining forces to fortify the Philippines against the escalating threat of floods. In a strategic move responding to the intensifying impact of climate change, the two organizations launched a groundbreaking technical cooperation project.

JICA chief representative SAKAMOTO Takema and DPWH secretary Manuel M. Bonoan marked a pivotal moment on January 17 by signing the Record of Discussions for the Project for Enhancement of Flood Control Strategy in Prioritized River Basins. 

This collaboration aims to revamp the flood control strategies for key river basins, particularly focusing on Pasig-Marikina and Cagayan Rivers.

The cornerstone of this initiative is the comprehensive update of master plans and pre-feasibility studies, equipping the regions with a robust defense mechanism against floods. 

JICA emphasizes that these updated plans will serve as a “guidepost toward the achievement of 100-year flood safety even with climate change impact.” As an integral part of the project, JICA and DPWH will engage in basin-wide stakeholder consultations, actively seeking feedback and insights from the communities.

Highlighting the importance of disaster preparedness, JICA chief SAKAMOTO said, “JICA’s approach to disaster resiliency [sic] has been tested many times. Our emphasis on disaster preparedness has worked in Japan. More importantly, we have observed that disaster preparedness can save lives and reduce economic losses even in other disaster-prone countries like the Philippines. This cooperation is vital especially in times of large-scale flood disasters and emergencies. It also proves why coordination and planning are needed.”

JICA and DPWH have been working collaboratively to enhance flood control infrastructure across the river basins. Driven by rapid growth and the recent surge in typhoon disasters in the Philippines, officials are now devising a national strategy to efficiently manage flood risks.

JICA emphasizes that with the right investment in flood control infrastructure, activities, and a strategic approach, the Philippines could substantially decrease the number of affected residents and economic losses during flood disasters.

The impact of the ongoing JICA-DPWH cooperation was evident in a simulation conducted by the JICA study team using Typhoon Ulysses data from 2020. The study revealed that the concerted efforts for river improvement since the 1970s significantly reduced the impact of floods in Manila. 

Economic losses, estimated at $1.3 billion without the project, have now been reduced to $0.2 billion. Notably, the number of residents affected by floods from the Pasig-Marikina River has been dramatically reduced from 1 million to 30,000.

Over time, the JICA-DPWH partnership has underscored the multifaceted approach required for effective flood control. This includes the development of well-integrated master plans, timely investments, and capacity development.

The collaboration between JICA and DPWH represents a crucial step forward in fortifying the Philippines against the increasing threats of floods. With an updated flood control strategy in place, the nation is poised to achieve a 100-year flood safety milestone, providing a resilient shield against the impacts of climate change.◼