During a plenary session on Monday, November 17, senators called for greater regional coordination in flood control planning, warning that stronger oversight could prevent uncoordinated initiatives and so-called “ghost projects.”

Sen. Risa Hontiveros questioned whether the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) and Department of Finance (DOF) consulted the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development (DepDev) and local councils before approving over ₱70 billion in flood control projects that were halted in 2025. She stressed that these bodies play a critical role in aligning projects with River Basin Master Plans and ensuring proper oversight.

Sen. Win Gatchalian noted that many smaller projects bypass review by the DepDev due to financial thresholds, while some are split into phases to evade scrutiny, weakening coordination with local governments and relevant agencies.

He also highlighted that the 2026 national budget includes zero funding for flood control projects, a gap that proper regional oversight could help address.

Sen. Jinggoy Estrada emphasized that participation from the start could have prevented mismanaged projects.

“Some local executives are unaware of flood control projects in their own areas,” he said, citing cases including Quezon City under Mayor Joy Belmonte.

The senators stressed that local councils, which include government units, DPWH, Department of Energy and Natural Resource (DENR), and other regional agencies, are best positioned to vet and coordinate projects, balancing national priorities with local needs. Strengthening this oversight, they said, could improve accountability and ensure projects genuinely address flood risks.

“This is a wake-up call,” Gatchalian said, emphasizing that proper coordination is crucial to protecting communities and avoiding wasted resources.