MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said Friday that its proposed 2026 budget does not allocate funds for new locally funded flood control projects.
The agency clarified that reports suggesting otherwise are inaccurate. It explained that the proposed P2.49 billion in the budget is intended solely for the maintenance and operating expenses of existing flood control programs and projects, including Oplan Kontra Baha.
DPWH said the allocation will fund declogging, desilting, dredging, repairs, and clearing activities to keep waterways and drainage systems functioning nationwide, along with other maintenance needs tied to existing flood control efforts.
The department said it will use the funds to reduce flooding risks despite limited fiscal space.
DPWH added that the absence of funding for new locally funded flood control projects follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to streamline agency spending.
Earlier, Marcos said the proposed 2026 national budget would not include funds for DPWH flood control projects as part of the executive branch’s effort to remove questionable and problematic items.
Marcos said a review showed that many flood control projects initially listed for 2026 may no longer be needed. He noted that about P350 billion allocated for flood control in 2025 remains unspent, allowing ongoing work to continue without new funding in 2026.