Marcos orders Quiaoit River dredging, funding for diversion channels in Ilocos Norte to prevent flooding

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has ordered round-the-clock dredging operations along the Quiaoit River and the funding of two diversion channels to protect residents of Ilocos Norte from recurring floods, Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said on Saturday. Dizon told The Manila Times that the Chief Executive issued the directives following the severe flooding that hit the municipalities of Paoay and Batac during the onslaught of Typhoon ‘Kiyapo,’ stressing the need for permanent flood mitigation measures as the rainy season continues. "The President ordered continuous dredging of the Quiaoit River and instructed us to fund the construction of two diversion channels to prevent a repeat of the massive flooding experienced by residents," according to the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) chief after inspecting the area late last week with the president's son, Ilocos Norte First District Rep. Sandro Marcos. The Quiaoit River, which runs through Paoay and Batac, has repeatedly overflowed during periods of heavy rainfall, inundating residential communities and agricultural areas, the DPWH said. Dizon said sustained dredging operations would increase the river's carrying capacity by removing accumulated silt and other obstructions, allowing floodwaters to flow more efficiently. He added that the two diversion channels would serve as additional waterways that could redirect excess water away from populated communities during intense rains and typhoons. The directives are part of the administration's continuing efforts to strengthen flood-control infrastructure nationwide following the widespread devastation caused by recent weather disturbances, the public works department said. The DPWH chief said they would implement the president's instructions immediately, with continuous dredging to begin while preparations for the construction of the diversion channels were being undertaken.
2026-08-08 04:29:02