ANGELES CITY — The local government here, led by Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin Jr., has teamed up with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for a citywide canal and drainage clean-up initiative aimed at preventing flooding. The collaborative effort was announced during a meeting held on October 29, 2024, between Mayor Lazatin, DPWH representatives Rolando Gonzales and Ma. Abigail Delos Reyes, as well as various city officials.
The clean-up drive will involve clearing all the city’s canals and drainages to ensure proper water flow and minimize the risk of flooding, which has been a persistent problem in some areas of Angeles City. “Lilinisin po natin lahat ng mga kanal at drainages para maiwasan po natin ang pagbaha sa ating siyudad,” said Mayor Lazatin, emphasizing the need for these measures.
Also present during the meeting were Chief Adviser IC Calaguas, City Councilor Atty. Arvin Suller, Environmental Management System (EMS) Head Francis Pangilinan, and key personnel from the City Engineer’s Office (CEO), including Officer-in-Charge Helen Ayro and Engineers Angelo Tayag and Nelson Palacio. The coordination of efforts between the LGU and DPWH is seen as a crucial step in addressing the recurring issue of flooding in the city.
In addition to the clean-up drive, regular declogging and desilting operations are being conducted by the EMS-CEO team, as well as ongoing drainage improvement projects. These efforts aim to alleviate flooding risks, particularly during the rainy season. Mayor Lazatin stressed that the community also plays a role in maintaining the city’s drainage system. He urged residents to practice proper waste disposal and avoid littering in canals.
“Nakikiusap din po ako na iwasan po natin magtapon ng basura sa mga kanal o saan man, ilagay po natin sa tamang tapunan ang ating mga basura para hindi bumara sa mga kanal natin,” he appealed, highlighting that public cooperation is essential to the success of flood-mitigation measures.
Mayor Lazatin’s administration has made cleanliness and order a cornerstone of its programs, which extends beyond just the clean-up of canals. The mayor also addressed the ongoing construction projects in the city, specifically the Sto. Cristo Flyover and drainage improvements along Sto. Entierro. To reduce traffic disruptions caused by these projects, Mayor Lazatin requested that all construction work be conducted during nighttime.
“Mas mainam po na tuwing gabi po gagawin ng DPWH ang mga nasabing proyekto para mabawasan po ang traffic na nararanasan natin,” Mayor Lazatin explained. This proposal aims to balance the need for infrastructure development while minimizing inconvenience for commuters and residents.
Source: Angeles City Information Office
