METRO MANILA FLOOD CONTROL
Marcos Jr. welcomes Ang’s offer to tackle NCR flooding
MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. today expressed strong support for a proposal from San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Chairman and CEO Ramon Ang to help solve the persistent flooding problem in Metro Manila. Speaking from Malacañang, Marcos underscored the critical role of the private sector in national development, citing Ang’s offer as a prime example of such collaboration.
The President revealed that Ang had previously briefed him on a plan to desilt waterways across the National Capital Region (NCR). However, Marcos stressed that the success of this initiative is contingent upon the cooperation of local government units (LGUs) in managing the region’s garbage problem, which frequently clogs drainage systems and waterways.
“It simply doesn’t work until we have a solution to the garbage problem,” Marcos stated, pointing to the proposed waste-to-energy project in the City of Manila as a potential model for other urban centers.
Marcos affirmed that the government would thoroughly evaluate the proposal, noting that Ang’s proven record of successfully completing infrastructure projects on schedule lends significant credibility to the offer.
The President also welcomed a suggestion from Senator Panfilo Lacson to engage other prominent business leaders in disaster-mitigation efforts. Marcos highlighted the long-standing tradition of the country’s “taipans” offering their assistance for major development initiatives.
“This is not anything new. The so-called taipans of the country, when we want to do something, they really offer. That’s why they help a lot,” he said, acknowledging the historical contributions of the business community to national progress.
