Save lives and properties; invest in water impounding systems

Construct more water impounding facilities.

This was the marching order of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. given twice in succession this month — the first was on July 13, 2024, days ahead of the flooding that swamped Metro Manila and neighboring provinces; and the second on July 27, 2024 shortly after the deluge spawned by the Typhoon Carina-enhanced southwest monsoon (habagat).

Indeed, the recent inundation of Metro Manila and most parts of Luzon underscores the necessity of these facilities in helping mitigate the impact of flooding, especially in low-lying communities.

As climate change intensifies, extreme weather events like typhoons and heavy rainfall will continue to pose significant threats to communities.

With flooding becoming a recurring challenge, water impounding systems play a pivotal role in safeguarding lives, properties, and economic stability. One shining example was the crucial role of the Upper Wawa Dam at the height of Typhoon Carina. While the dam was primarily designed for bulk water supply, it nevertheless served as a testament to effective water management. It exemplified the mitigating function of a water impounding facility. At the height of Carina’s onslaught, it was a beacon of resilience.

During the typhoon, the Upper Wawa Dam impounded over 90 million cubic meters of water. By doing so, it significantly reduced downstream flooding in Metro Manila and the eastern part of Rizal province. Without this critical infrastructure, areas like San Mateo, Montalban in Rizal, and Marikina, Quezon City, and Pasig would have faced even more devastating consequences.

In fact, Rizal Governor Nina Ynares and National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Administrator Eduardo Guillen cited the critical role of the dam at the height of Typhoon Carina in mitigating flooding.

Designed primarily as a water supply reservoir, the Upper Wawa Dam will ensure a steady source of raw water in the future. With a capacity of at least 710 million liters per day, it reduces dependence on the aging Angat Dam. As the population grows, the dam’s contribution becomes even more vital.

President Marcos had earlier emphasized that the dam fosters climate resilience. It protects downstream communities from flooding and mitigates the detrimental effects of a drought. As extreme weather events become more frequent, such resilience-building projects are essential.

And the Upper Wawa Dam exemplifies how a strategic infrastructure can transform disaster-prone regions into resilient communities. As we face an uncertain climate future, investing in water impounding systems remains a wise choice. By investing in these types of facilities, we save lives by securing much needed water supply and serving as a mitigating factor against floods. It also preserves properties and safeguards economic stability.