The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has clarified that there is no provision for new locally-funded flood control projects in the 2026 budget. The agency issued the clarification after circulating reports claimed that P2.49 billion had been allocated for flood-control initiatives. DPWH officials asserted that those reports were inaccurate and stressed that the 2026 budget does not earmark funds for brand-new flood control schemes at the local level.
Overview of the clarification
The agency’s spokesperson stated: “There is zero provision for new locally-funded flood control projects in the 2026 budget.” This line was repeated in a series of public briefings designed to quell misinformation that could influence local planning and project implementation. By setting the record straight, DPWH aims to prevent misinterpretation by local government units (LGUs) and the public, ensuring that decision-makers base their plans on confirmed budget figures.
What this means for local flood protection plans
Local flood-control projects typically involve civil works to control floodwaters, improve drainage, and protect communities during heavy rains. The absence of new locally-funded flood-control allocations in 2026 shifts the emphasis toward maintenance, rehabilitation, and potentially national-level programs where funding is already allocated or prioritized. Local governments may need to explore alternative funding sources, such as inter-agency arrangements, grants, private sector participation, or partnerships with national programs that target flood-prone areas.
Why the misinformation spread
In public budgeting, figures can be misinterpreted or misreported, especially when social media and quick news cycles share snippets of information. The DPWH notes that the report claiming a P2.49 billion allocation for flood control was not supported by official budget documents. When agencies publish budgets, they release line items and justification notes. The discrepancy between those official documents and circulating claims can create confusion about the scope of funding for specific projects.
Budgeting approach and potential implications
The 2026 budget for DPWH continues to support essential infrastructure: road networks, bridges, drainage improvements, and disaster-resilience work. While new flood-control projects may not receive locally-funded lines in the immediate year, the department can still pursue flood mitigation through ongoing programs and projects that qualify for national funding streams. This approach aligns with a broader strategy to prioritize high-impact, replication-ready projects that maximize limited funds while ensuring resilience against weather events.
Local authorities and stakeholders should stay informed
For LGUs and stakeholders, staying informed is crucial to effectively plan and execute flood mitigation activities. The DPWH recommends continuing collaboration with regional engineering districts, the Office of Civil Defense, and other national agencies to align local needs with available resources. If a community has urgent flood-related concerns, it should document risk areas, establish maintenance schedules, and explore alternative funding avenues in cooperation with DPWH and local executives.
Looking ahead
Budgeting for flood control remains a priority in many disaster-prone areas. While the 2026 budget does not provide new locally-funded flood-control allocations, DPWH remains committed to maintaining critical infrastructure and pursuing resilient, long-term solutions. As climate risks intensify, transparent budgeting and coordinated planning will be essential to protect lives and property without overcommitting limited resources. Communities should monitor official DPWH releases and rely on verified documents to guide their local planning and funding requests.
