Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project Completed

The Php6.539 billion Pasig-Marikina River Channel Improvement Project in Metro Manila was recently inaugurated.

The project was initiated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).

According to JICA, the project assisted the revetment works, construction of river walls, drainage outlets, and dredging works along Delpan Bridge to Napindan Channel and along the Lower Marikina River which stretches to Napindan Channel to the Manggahan Floodway.

In a statement, JICA senior representative Ayumu Ohshima said the project aims to help local governments and vulnerable communities enhance their flood protection measures and contribute to the Philippines’ efforts in building resiliency against disasters.

Aside from structural measures, the project also aims to contribute to restoring the ecological balance and improve the aesthetics in Metro Manila’s major tributaries.

Initiatives to improve the Pasig-Marikina River Channel form part of a 1990 master plan for flood control and drainage improvement in Metro Manila, a technical assistance from JICA.

Historically, the Pasig River is an economic center that has been seriously affected by massive population and industrialization. The river also overflows during heavy downpour.

The third phase of the project is part of JICA’s continuing partnership with the DPWH to help improve the country’s flood control measures and implement long-term solutions against flood disasters. (JEG/PIA-NCR with reports from JICA)