MMDA, DPWH, and LGUs Set Timeline for Malabon-Navotas Navigational Gate Repair
THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), and the local government units (LGUs) of Navotas and Malabon have agreed to hasten the repairs of the damaged navigational gate of the Malabon-Navotas River.
MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Don Artes said they have agreed to work together to complete the repairs until August 17.
“The repairs will be done while the navigational gate is in an open position and during low tide so that flooding will be minimized,” said Artes.
“However, weather conditions and water current are factors in the immediate repair of the gate. We are keeping our fingers crossed that there will be no weather disturbance or unusual current while repairs are ongoing.”
Navotas representative Tobias “Toby” Tiangco said a P299 million budget has been allotted for 2024 for the rehabilitation of the navigational gate, which will now be used for its repairs following the damage.
“Fortunately, we have the funding which is supposedly for its rehabilitation,” said Tiangco.
Artes said Department of National Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro has also suggested tapping the fund of the Office of the Civil Defense disaster fund to augment the budget to hasten the repairs.
Navotas City Mayor John Rey Tiangco and Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval said they are working to mitigate the effects of flooding in some areas of their cities since the period of July to September is high tide season.
Mayor Tiangco said the immediate repairs to the navigational gate are critical for the residents and industry. Several barangays in Malabon and Navotas are experiencing flooding, especially during high tides, due to the malfunctioning gate.
