The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will propose requiring private developers nationwide to build stormwater detention basins to help prevent flooding and store water for dry seasons.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon said the proposal will be coordinated with the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development and presented to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
Meanwhile, Sen. Francis Pangilinan urged the government to consider declaring a national state of calamity as El Niño causes agricultural losses.
The Department of Agriculture reported ₱6.87 billion in drought-related losses as of Sept. 26, with total losses potentially reaching ₱20 billion.
The crisis could affect up to four million farmers and fisherfolk and reduce rice production by about one million metric tons.
Source: PhilNews24 | October 22, 2026
