Recent flooding in Rizal is attributed to outdated drainage systems that could not handle increasing surface runoff, according to an environmental expert.
Dr. Rex Cruz, a Professor Emeritus at the University of the Philippines Los Baños, said in a TV Patrol interview that past drainage systems failed to consider Severe Tropical Storm Enteng’s higher rainfall volume.
“Apparently, our drainage systems in the past didn’t really take into account that at some point in the future, like now, the surface runoff would increase,” Cruz said.
He explained the systems were not designed to handle the amount of water flowing through urbanized areas, leading to excessive surface runoff.
“So, if the drainage system were sufficient, there shouldn’t be much accumulation on the surface—in other words, there shouldn’t be flooding because the rainwater should be able to flush out easily,” Cruz said.
He emphasized the need for upgraded drainage systems to manage the increasing runoff and prevent further flooding, particularly as urban development continues across the province.
“When it comes to policies, there’s a lot that needs fixing, and I’d like to start by reviewing our forest laws because many of them are already outdated. Secondly, let’s take a look at our existing national land policies,” Cruz said.
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