JICA Turns Over Imus Retarding Basin to Cavite to Boost Flood Protection

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is set to officially turn over the Imus retarding basin, a critical infrastructure aimed at mitigating flood damage in Cavite, to the provincial government of Cavite. The project, developed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and JICA under a comprehensive flood management masterplan, seeks to protect the province from severe flooding. The Imus retarding basin functions by temporarily delaying flood run-off during periods of high rainfall or peak flood volume, before gradually releasing it into the Imus River. This helps to alleviate flood damages. The facility features an 84-meter overflow dike, standing an average of three meters in height, with approximately 1.3 kilometers of surrounding dune and 1.1 kilometers of separating dike. According to JICA, the Imus retarding basin has a holding capacity of 35 hectares. Additionally, the Bacoor retarding basin includes two temporary storage ponds connected by a sluiceway, with a combined capacity of nine hectares for storing floodwaters. These projects are part of JICA's P3-billion flood risk management project, which also covers the Cagayan River, Tagoloan River, and Imus River. Philippines is highly vulnerable to climate change impacts, with frequent flood disasters plaguing coastal and riverine areas. Such infrastructure development is crucial for safeguarding lives and properties. Japanese technical and financial assistance significantly contributes to enhancing the Philippines' disaster resilience.