MANILA, (PIA) — Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval has pledged to implement new projects and coordinate with national government agencies to address the ongoing flooding issues in the city following the repair of the Barangay Dampalit Floodgate.
The repair was completed through collaboration with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Mayor Jeannie Sandoval personally inspects the restoration repair works. (Photo: Malabon PIO)
“Good news for us is that the Barangay Dampalit Floodgate is now operational again, as it will help reduce water entry into the city, especially during high tides that cause flooding,” Mayor Sandoval said. She expressed gratitude to the MMDA and DPWH for their efforts in restoring the floodgate, emphasizing its importance for the safety and security of Malabueños during heavy rains.
The mayor acknowledged that while some floodgates remain damaged and contribute to flooding, her administration is committed to ensuring their timely repair for the benefit of all residents. “We will continue to coordinate with authorities to develop plans and projects that will prevent the recurrence of floodgate failures and severe flooding in the coming years,” she added.
The City Engineering Department reported that they promptly coordinated with the MMDA after the floodgate was damaged during recent high tides. The repairs included the replacement and installation of the floodgate as well as the removal of a temporary barrier that had been in place to mitigate high tide impacts.
During the repair operations, the local government ensured that extended pumping station operations were conducted to manage water levels in the area effectively. This proactive approach aimed to minimize disruption for residents while the repairs were underway.
On August 28, Mayor Sandoval also inspected the damaged navigational gate on the Malabon-Navotas River. During her visit, she noted that dredging and repair operations were ongoing. “The gate has been raised to a maintenance position to assess what further repairs are needed,” she said.
She highlighted that a new link arm with additional bolts has been installed, enhancing the gate’s durability. “We expect the navigational gate to be operational again before the next high tide hits our city,” she added.
Earlier, Mayor Sandoval had met with the DPWH and MMDA to discuss the allocation of the Quick Response Fund. This funding will support the repair and upgrade of the Tullahan Riverwall, which collapsed due to severe flooding in August, as well as other disaster and emergency response initiatives.
To further combat flooding, the city government has placed sandbags reinforced with bamboo sticks and nets in vulnerable areas near the riverwall. This measure aims to protect barangays from potential flooding.
The mayor assured residents that the local government is closely monitoring the status of all floodgates in Malabon to ensure their functionality and safety. Additionally, she stated that aid will be provided to those affected by heavy flooding, demonstrating her administration’s commitment to the welfare of the community. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
