PNoy: Gov't working to solve flooding in Marikina

The President has assured residents of Marikina City that the government is working towards solving the city's problem of flooding.

Flooding in the city occurs when the Marikina river bursts its confines due to strong rains.

He gave the assurance in his short message after leading the distribution of family food packs to 1,229 families taking up temporary shelter at the Nangka Elementary School in Marikina City.

He said he had directed the Department of Public Works and Highways and other concerned agencies to come up with a comprehensive plan to end once and for all the flooding problem that affects close to 90 percent of Marikina City.

Public Works Secretary Rogelio Singson, who was with the President during the relief operation, told residents that a proposed permanent solution is the creation of embankments and catch basins at the upstream portions and tributaries of the Marikina river.

These will slow down floodwaters that cascade down the mountains during inclement weather.

These mountains are located in Antipolo, San Mateo and Rodriguez all located in the province of Rizal.

The President said this proposed permanent solution will be completed by the end of his term in 2016.

He called on the city residents to join government efforts in addressing the problem of flooding saying that nothing is impossible once everyone bands together to achieve a common cause. - PIA — ARA