DPWH to Build Retarding Basins in Luneta Park Next Year to Combat Manila Flooding

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to construct three retarding basins within Luneta Park next year, a move aimed at mitigating flooding in Manila. Public Works Secretary Vivencio B. Dizon announced on Tuesday that an agreement has been reached with the National Parks Development Committee to establish these detention basins. These basins are designed to store rainwater during periods of high rainfall or peak flood volumes. "These are good because we will be able to divert (flood water) here at our detention basins. So, it is very important, once we have these, we will have storage for water before these will be pumped out to Manila Bay," Dizon stated, highlighting their crucial role. The agency is also exploring proposals to utilize the stored water for other park-related purposes. "It will be exciting, I also hope this will be a start where we can use available open spaces for detention basins," he added. DPWH targets to commence construction next year, with the project forming part of Manila City's drainage master plan. The right of way has been secured, and the project will be submitted for inclusion in the 2027 budget. Construction is anticipated to take less than a year. This initiative represents a forward-thinking approach to urban infrastructure development in the Philippines, particularly in leveraging existing public spaces for enhanced disaster resilience. For a country prone to heavy rainfall and flooding, such projects are vital for ensuring the stability of urban life and protecting communities from the impacts of extreme weather events.