Amid the massive flooding Cebu experienced during the onslaught of Typhoon Tino, Malacañang on Wednesday said there were a total of 343 flood control projects implemented in the province from 2016 to 2022, with 168 more projects undertaken from 2022 to 2025.
At a press briefing, Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro urged Cebu Gov. Pamela Baricuatro to provide information on alleged anomalous flood control projects following the governor’s Facebook post criticizing the situation.
‘That’s the reason why President Marcos Jr. ordered an investigation into these flood control projects – because he saw the impact. Budgets were allocated, but the projects don’t seem to be working. So if she’s angry, that’s what the President feels too,’ Castro said.
In her post, Baricuatro lamented that Cebu was ‘flooded to the max’ despite an alleged P26-billion budget for flood control in the province.
Castro said the Palace welcomes any data or evidence from Baricuatro that could help identify those responsible for possible irregularities.
‘If Gov. Baricuatro can provide more information, facts, or data to hold accountable those responsible, that is welcome,’ she added.
The communications official clarified that the investigation would cover projects beyond the Marcos administration.
‘Our initial data show 343 flood control projects completed from 2016 to 2022 across Cebu’s seven districts and the city. Let’s work together to find those accountable for any anomalous projects,’ she said.
Castro also said President Marcos is expected to personally visit Cebu to attend to the needs of residents affected by the flooding.
‘Even if she’s not an ally of the President, no matter what political color she represents, the President is ready to help anyone who needs government assistance,’ she said.
Castro noted that during a recent visit to Cebu, Baricuatro personally welcomed the President and thanked him for his swift response to the province’s concerns. She added that 55 flood control projects are currently ongoing in Cebu.
Meanwhile, Castro reported that the government has extended immediate assistance to those affected by Typhoon Tino.
‘All agencies under the administration of President Marcos Jr. responded quickly to ensure the safety and security of residents hit by Typhoon Tino,’ she said.
According to Castro, the Department of Health (DOH) has distributed medicines, clean drinking water, hygiene kits, and water containers in Cebu, Aklan, and Eastern Visayas – areas hardest hit by the typhoon.
‘The DOH remains on standby to address medical needs and is monitoring the risk of lahars from Kanlaon Volcano due to continuous rains brought by Typhoon Tino,’ she added.
The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), meanwhile, distributed 121,988 family food packs and 1,628 ready-to-eat food items to affected residents across Calabarzon, Bicol, Western Visayas, Negros Island, Central Visayas, Eastern Visayas, and Caraga.
Castro said the DSWD also provided assistance in Metro Manila and Zamboanga, including financial aid to families of victims of the typhoon.
‘Among those given hot meals and assistance were stranded passengers, drivers, and operators at ports and terminals in affected regions,’ she said.
She added that President Marcos has dispatched several Cabinet members to monitor the situation of residents impacted by the typhoon.