Talk:Flood control projects scandal in the Philippines

Article title

Article titles like what we have here "Flood control projects controversy in the Philippines (2024–2025)" is not how WP:Descriptive title is entitled. Some suggestions:

• Flood control projects controversy in the Philippines (no years)
• Flood control projects scandal in the Philippines
• Ghost flood control projects in the Philippines

Howard the Duck (talk) 22:37, 4 September 2025 (UTC)

I like "Flood control projects scandal in the Philippines". Most corruption cases that appear on the current events portal are titled with the word "scandal". _signed, Pat ^talk 08:00, 5 September 2025 (UTC)

I would slightly reword the proposed titles. Why not "Philippine flood control projects scandal"? --Sky Harbor ^(talk) 17:16, 11 September 2025 (UTC)

I prefer this title over the current. At the very least, the use of years here as a disambiguator is entirely unnecessary. I don't think "ghost" is necessary here, nor does it accurately describe all of these projects (which also include projects which do exist but are of laughably substandard quality). Chlod (say hi!) 13:04, 12 September 2025 (UTC)

Private sector response

Would be good to consider including statements and other reactions from the private sector, especially as the article already does a great job summarizing actions from the government and will likely cover any future protests done. An alliance of 30 business groups have released a statement today calling for a thorough investigation.

I hesitate to create a new section on private sector responses though given uncertain notability; it might well be the case that private sector participation stops here. Regardless, monitoring this space would be useful as we can consider a separate section should more developments occur.

PaoloBarts (talk) 07:32, 5 September 2025 (UTC)

Added. Thank you! _signed, Pat ^talk 08:37, 5 September 2025 (UTC)

Thanks for adding! I'll change the section title to "Private sector and civil society responses" as it now covers actions from both the private sector and several progressive groups in the CSO space PaoloBarts (talk) 13:37, 5 September 2025 (UTC)

A Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for speedy deletion

The following Wikimedia Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for speedy deletion:

• Representatives of construction companies, including Sarah Discaya, take their oath as resource persons during the hearing of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee on alleged anomalous flood control projects.jpg

You can see the reason for deletion at the file description page linked above. —Community Tech bot (talk) 13:37, 12 September 2025 (UTC)

Internet culture

I think I should put impact of internet that became meme of the Flood Control Project like this sources? ([1], [2]) ROY is WAR Talk! 09:08, 13 September 2025 (UTC)

I believe the increase in flood control memes may not be notable enough for inclusion in the article since most newsworthy events lead to memes being spread anyway and newsworthiness is not enough of a condition for Wikipedia inclusion (see WP:NOTNEWS). Unless there is something unique about how memes and internet culture where used in the context of the flood control controversy (e.g., if meme activity played a significant and unique role in enabling protests or capturing public attention, writing about memes may not meet notability requirements. PaoloBarts (talk) 05:38, 14 September 2025 (UTC)

Should we use photos uploaded by gov't officials / political groups with visible branding?

A currently used image commons:File:Protest rally at the EDSA Shrine over the corruption regarding the flood control projects.jpg is sourced from Rep. Perci Cendaña's Facebook page, prominent displays the Akbayan Partylist logo, and also promotes social media handles. Should we retain or remove such photos?

Use of these photos may be seen as an implicit endorsement of the politician/party and hence not align with WP:NPOV. If obtained from social media, it may also not be clear whether such photos were physically taken by the government official or borrowed/sourced elsewhere, and thus also not align with Commons:Project scope/Precautionary principle. See discussion of using social media derived photos. Not using such photos can limit the amount of photos we can use, but then there's also an ongoing campaign to get more photos.

On the other hand, use of these photos themselves solely to establish facts like the appearance and conduct of the protest may still be in line with WP:NPOV. I raise this point because there are also photos with PCO and Senate logos which fall under this category and use branding elements, albeit less prominently so (e.g., commons:File:Discaya-Couple-senate-hearing-090825.jpg PaoloBarts (talk) 16:28, 22 September 2025 (UTC)

I mean its kinda iffy licensing wise, Cerdena seem to be posting those photos under the capacity as an Akbayan Partylist member. Akbayan itself is not a government entity. We could get more photos from the LGUs though. In contrast visible logos are a strong indicator that the photographs are their own work and not grabbed elsewhere. They could be removed and converted to EXIF credits as per Commons:Watermarks perhaps.Hariboneagle927 (talk) 03:05, 23 September 2025 (UTC)

I see, noted on logos being favorable as stronger proof of photo ownership.

While Akbayan is not strictly a gov't entity, it currently has representation in Congress and is a very active participant in the anti-corruption protests. Combined with how the photo in question contains prominent logos and social media handles, we might be in danger of breaching WP:NPOV.

My view though is that we leave the picture as is, but replace it with a more unambiguously neutral photo once available. PaoloBarts (talk) 10:21, 23 September 2025 (UTC)

GA nomination?

Can this article be considered as good article nominee? Even if its currently being updated due to the events going on right now? Since some words, references, neutral point of view, and etc. may be updated due to its grammar and may be fixed in order to be nominated. ArinAstrid (talk) 05:30, 26 September 2025 (UTC)

Was thinking about this also. I thought the stability criteria under WP:GACR6 meant the exclusion of articles about current events, but it seems to only disqualify articles undergoing edit warring or other disputes which I think doesn't apply to this article.

I personally think the article has evolved significantly from weeks back when it was a newly rated B-class article, but not sure how close the article is to good article status and whether it makes sense to spend some more time on cleanup and content scoping PaoloBarts (talk) 17:24, 26 September 2025 (UTC)

Also, the controversy is still ongoing. I think we should nominate this if the controversy is done? ROY is WAR Talk! 13:58, 3 November 2025 (UTC)

Semi-protected edit request on 4 December 2025

Flood control in the Philippines is a major national priority due to frequent typhoons, monsoon rains, storm surges, and rapid urbanization. Here’s a clear, organized overview of how the country manages flooding:

🇵🇭 Flood Control in the Philippines: Overview 1. Key Causes of Flooding Heavy rainfall from ~20 typhoons per year

Southwest monsoon (Habagat) intensification

Storm surges in coastal areas

Urbanization causing poor drainage

Silted rivers and deforestation

Low-lying geography (e.g., Metro Manila, Central Luzon)

2. Major Flood Control Strategies A. Structural Measures (Physical Infrastructure) 1. Flood control dams Example: Angat Dam, San Roque Dam, Upper Marikina Dam (planned)

2. Dikes and levees Pampanga River Basin dike systems

Agno River flood control structures

Pasig–Marikina river dikes

3. River dredging & widening Ongoing dredging projects across the Marikina, Pasig, Pampanga, Cagayan rivers

4. Drainage and pumping stations Metro Manila uses massive pumps in Manila, Pasay, Malabon, and Navotas

DPWH builds/rehabilitates drainage systems nationwide

5. Floodways Manggahan Floodway (directs Marikina River water to Laguna de Bay)

Ongoing proposals for additional floodways in Metro Manila

B. Non-Structural Measures 1. Early Warning Systems (EWS) PAGASA weather forecasting

Automated rain gauges & flood sensors

Community flood alerts via SMS & apps

2. Land use & zoning No-build zones in danger areas

Watershed protection programs

3. Reforestation & Watershed Management National Greening Program

Sierra Madre, Marikina Watershed rehabilitation efforts

4. Community-based disaster risk reduction Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction Councils (BDRRMCs)

Evacuation plans, drills, education

3. Government Agencies Involved DPWH – flood control infrastructure

PAGASA (DOST) – forecasting & early warnings

NDRRMC – disaster management coordination

DENR – watershed & environmental management

LGUs – local flood prevention & response

4. Key Flood Control Projects Metro Manila Pasig–Marikina River Flood Control Project

Metro Manila Flood Management Project (with World Bank & AIIB)

Blumentritt Interceptor Catchment System

Manila Bay coastal embankment studies (proposed)

Luzon Cagayan River Restoration Project

Pampanga River Basin Flood Control

Bicol River Basin development

Visayas & Mindanao Iloilo Flood Control Project

Cebu City Urban Drainage Improvement

Agusan River Basin flood mitigation

Davao River flood control works

5. Current Challenges Rapid urbanization outpacing drainage capacity

Informal settlements in flood-prone zones

Watershed degradation

Funding and long-term maintenance issues

Climate change (stronger typhoons, more intense rainfall)

6. Improving Flood Control: Recommendations Expand green infrastructure (parks, retention ponds)

Strict enforcement of zoning & river easement laws

Modernize drainage systems nationwide

Accelerate watershed restoration

Develop more upstream retention basins

Invest in flood-resistant urban planning

If you want, I can also provide:

✅ A summary for students ✅ A map of major flood-prone areas ✅ A detailed report for a school project ✅ Flood control strategies specific to Metro Manila, Visayas, or Mindanao ✅ A 5–20 slide presentation

Would you like any of these?

You said: create me an article about Flood control in the Philippines , insert an conclusion make it longer ChatGPT said: Below is a well-structured, detailed, and comprehensive article on Flood Control in the Philippines with an expanded conclusion. If you want, I can also format this into a PDF-style layout, a speech, or a school-friendly version.

Flood Control in the Philippines: Challenges, Strategies, and the Road Ahead Flooding is one of the most persistent and destructive natural hazards in the Philippines. Each year, an average of 20 tropical cyclones enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility, many bringing intense rainfall and storm surges. Combined with rapid urbanization, geographical vulnerability, and environmental degradation, flooding has become a recurring national concern that impacts millions of Filipinos. As a result, flood control has evolved into a multi-dimensional effort involving engineering, environmental protection, disaster preparedness, and community participation.

Major Causes of Flooding in the Philippines The country’s susceptibility to flooding is driven by a combination of natural and human factors:

1. Heavy Rainfall and Typhoons The Philippines sits along the Pacific typhoon belt, making it highly prone to extreme weather events. Torrential rain from typhoons, tropical storms, and monsoons often exceeds river capacities, causing overflow.

2. Monsoon Systems The Southwest Monsoon or Habagat regularly brings prolonged rainfall, especially in Luzon and Western Visayas. The interaction of monsoons with typhoons further intensifies flooding.

3. Geographic and Topographic Vulnerability Large portions of the country lie in low-lying basins or coastal zones. Regions such as Metro Manila, Pampanga, Cagayan Valley, and Bicol are naturally flood-prone due to their river systems and terrain.

4. Urbanization and Poor Drainage Rapid population growth in cities has overwhelmed existing drainage networks. Concrete surfaces reduce water absorption, while clogged esteros and canals prevent proper flow.

5. Environmental Degradation Deforestation, illegal logging, and poor watershed management result in soil erosion and sedimentation in rivers, causing them to rise more easily during heavy rainfall.

6. Rising Sea Levels Climate change contributes to higher sea levels, increasing the flood risk for coastal communities, especially during storm surges.

Government Strategies for Flood Control Flood management in the Philippines involves a combination of structural and non-structural measures implemented by various agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), PAGASA, and local government units.

A. Structural Flood Control Measures 1. Dams and Water Retention Structures Flood control dams help regulate river flow by storing excess water during heavy rains. Examples include the Angat, San Roque, and Magat dams. Proposed projects like the Upper Marikina Dam aim to further reduce floods in Metro Manila.

2. Dikes, Levees, and Floodwalls These structures prevent river overflow and protect communities in flood-prone areas. Major dike systems exist in Pampanga, Agno, and Marikina river basins.

3. Floodways and Spillways Floodways act as alternate channels for excess water. The Manggahan Floodway is among the most significant, diverting water from the Marikina River to Laguna de Bay.

4. River Dredging and Widening Rivers such as the Cagayan, Pampanga, and Pasig-Marikina are regularly dredged to remove silt, garbage, and invasive vegetation. This increases their carrying capacity and prevents overflow.

5. Drainage Systems and Pumping Stations Urban centers, especially Metro Manila, rely on extensive drainage systems and large pumping stations to move water out of low-lying areas during intense rainfall.

6. Coastal Barriers and Embankments Studies for large-scale coastal defenses, such as those proposed along Manila Bay, address the threats of storm surge and sea-level rise.

B. Non-Structural Flood Control Measures 1. Early Warning Systems PAGASA has improved forecasting accuracy through automated rain gauges, flood sensors, and real-time monitoring systems. Timely warnings aid in evacuation and preparation.

2. Land Use Planning and Zoning Regulations Designating no-build zones along riverbanks and floodplains reduces risk. LGUs are encouraged to enforce zoning laws that restrict settlement in high-risk areas.

3. Improved Watershed and Environmental Management Watershed rehabilitation, reforestation programs, and the National Greening Program help restore natural ecosystems that absorb and slow down water flow.

4. Community-Based Disaster Risk Reduction Barangay Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (BDRRMCs) coordinate local preparedness measures, evacuation drills, and public education campaigns.

5. Information and Education Campaigns Programs that teach residents about flood risks, emergency kits, and evacuation protocols significantly improve community resilience.

Major Flood Control Projects in the Philippines 1. Metro Manila Flood Management Project A large-scale initiative supported by the World Bank and Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB). It focuses on modernizing drainage systems, installing new pumping stations, and developing flood retention ponds.

2. Pasig–Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Improves river flow, increases dike heights, and rehabilitates river structures to reduce flooding in key Metro Manila cities.

3. Cagayan River Rehabilitation Project Dredging and river widening efforts aim to mitigate massive flooding experienced in Cagayan Valley during strong typhoons.

4. Pampanga River Basin Flood Control Retarding basins, dikes, and river widening projects protect one of the most flood-prone regions in Central Luzon.

5. Iloilo and Cebu Flood Control Systems Urban drainage, river widening, and pumping stations help reduce recurring floods in major Visayan cities.

Challenges Faced in Flood Control Efforts Despite progress, the Philippines still confronts several obstacles:

Rapid urban growth outpaces infrastructure development.

Informal settlements crowd waterways and restrict water flow.

Insufficient enforcement of zoning and environmental laws.

Climate change increases rainfall intensity and sea levels.

Funding limitations delay large-scale infrastructure projects.

Maintenance issues, such as silt buildup and clogged drainage systems, persist.

These challenges show that flood control requires not only engineering solutions but also long-term environmental and socio-economic interventions.

Conclusion Flood control in the Philippines is a complex but vital undertaking that involves infrastructure development, environmental protection, community preparedness, and strong governance. While significant advancements have been made—from improved river systems to upgraded drainage networks—the country continues to face major challenges brought by rapid urbanization and the intensifying impacts of climate change. Effective flood management, therefore, requires a holistic and coordinated approach.

Long-term resilience will depend on sustained investment in modern infrastructure, consistent enforcement of environmental and zoning laws, and active participation of communities in disaster preparedness. Equally important is the protection of watersheds and ecosystems that serve as natural defenses against flooding. With a combination of technology, planning, and collective action, the Philippines can reduce the devastating effects of floods and create safer, more resilient communities for future generations. — Preceding unsigned comment added by Petongg20 (talk • contribs) 02:04, 4 December 2025 (UTC)

A Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for deletion

The following Wikimedia Commons file used on this page or its Wikidata item has been nominated for deletion:

• The gate of the St. Gerrard Construction headquarters in Pasig City vandalized.jpg

Participate in the deletion discussion at the nomination page. —Community Tech bot (talk) 16:08, 5 December 2025 (UTC)