By Brian Campued
President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. is set to visit Naga City on Saturday to assess the implementation of the “Oplan Kontra Baha” in the Bicol Region.
This was announced by Palace Press Officer and Undersecretary Claire Castro during a press briefing on Thursday, noting that the President is also expected to meet with former vice president, now Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo.
The massive cleanup drive of canals (drainage), esteros, and rivers is part of the administration’s efforts to address the perennial issue of flooding in the country.
Ahead of the President’s visit, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has intensified its cleanup activities in Bicol, particularly the Sagop Creek, a critical waterway in Naga City.
“Nilinis ng mga tauhan ng ahensiya ang mga estero, kanal, at ilog upang tanggalin ang bara at panatilihing maayos ang daloy ng tubig sa mga ito. Malaking kapanatagan ito lalo na sa mga komunidad sa lugar na madalas nagtitiis sa masamang epekto ng baha,” Castro said.
The Oplan Kontra Baha is also being implemented nationwide, including the Greater Metro Manila area, as well as in Cebu and Bacolod City.
The initiative will likewise be expanded across waterways and estuaries in Laguna, Iloilo City, and Cagayan de Oro.
Meanwhile, Usec. Castro clarified that there is no information yet whether the former rivals would discuss potential political alliances after Vice President Sara Duterte announced her intent to run for president in 2028.
“Wala po kasi talagang napag-uusapan tungkol sa pangangampanya o kung sinuman ang magiging kandidato sa 2028,” Castro said.
“Napakaaga [pa] para mamulitika. Ang dami po na dapat ayusin sa bansa natin, maraming dapat na ayusin na interes ng ating mga kababayan. So, masyado pang maaga ang pag-usapan kung sino ang tatakbo sa 2028,” she added.
-jpv
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