The Metro Pacific Tollways South (MPTS), the southern arm of Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation, recently convened stakeholders from national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and host communities of the Cavite-Laguna Expressway (CALAX) and Manila-Cavite Expressway (CAVITEX) to enhance collaboration in addressing persistent flooding issues in Southern Metro Manila and nearby provinces.
First Flood Mitigation Forum in the South
This inaugural forum provided a platform for multi-sectoral dialogue, data sharing, and coordinated planning on flood mitigation efforts. Gil F. Amilbangsa, MPTC Chief Tollways Development and Engineering Officer, emphasized the forum's goal: "This year's forum aims to solidify cooperation among government agencies and LGUs in addressing recurring flooding challenges across Metro Manila and nearby provinces."
Key Participants and Insights
The MPTC Flood Mitigation Forum 2026 gathered representatives from the Office of Civil Defense (OCD), Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), and Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO). The Toll Regulatory Board (TRB), Philippine Reclamation Authority (PRA), and PEA Tollway Corporation (PEATC) also joined discussions and shared initiatives.
LGU representatives from Las Piñas, Parañaque, Pasay, Taguig, Cavite, and Laguna provided valuable insights, along with key leaders including Cavite Governor Francisco Gabriel "Abeng" Diaz Remulla, Office of Civil Defense Director Jose Harry M. Barber, Biñan City Councilor Titus Bautista, and Former Senator Cynthia Villar of Villar SIPAG Foundation.
Data-Driven Approach
Flood risk area data and assessments were provided by AMH Philippines, engaged by MPT South, to support evidence-based identification of critical flood-prone areas and inform mitigation planning. Discussions highlighted the impact of improper waste disposal on flooding, particularly in low-lying communities. LGUs reiterated efforts to strengthen enforcement of anti-littering and solid waste management ordinances, alongside regular declogging of drainage systems and monitoring of critical waterways.
Office of Civil Defense Director Jose Harry M. Barber stated: "Effective flood mitigation depends heavily on good governance, which is a core principle in Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) implementation. Participation is essential, as community involvement strengthens ownership and improves the relevance of mitigation measures."
In partnership with barangays and volunteer groups, LGUs continue community-based environmental education campaigns promoting proper waste segregation, infrastructure planning, and disaster risk reduction initiatives.
Commitment to Action
MPT South President and General Manager Andrew B. Pangilinan affirmed: "We recognize that multi-sectoral collaboration creates a ripple of hope for communities in the South, especially during typhoon season. We, at MPT South, will continue to work closely with LGUs and national government agencies to translate discussions into action."
The forum concluded with commitments from stakeholders to improve drainage systems, strengthen flood control management, enhance disaster resilience, and reinforce inter-agency coordination. The Flood Mitigation Forum 2026 underscores the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation Group's commitment to providing a platform for collaboration and sustained action to address flooding challenges in surrounding communities.
