Binay vows to address flood problem

MANILA, Philippines - Vice President Jejomar Binay vowed to address the perennial problem of flooding in the country if he gets elected president next year.

Binay made the statement yesterday after visiting some of the flooded areas in Central Luzon due to days of rains brought by Typhoon Nona, Tropical Depression Onyok and the northeast monsoon.

The Vice President said he would give priority to resolving the perennial flooding problem as it “gravely” affects communities and the livelihood of farmers especially in agricultural provinces like Nueva Ecija, Bulacan, Aurora and Pampanga.

Binay said the floods have an adverse impact on local economies and the agriculture sector.

“This problem of flooding should be effectively and quickly addressed by the government, specifically the DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways),” he said.

He visited Gapan and Cabanatuan City in Nueva Ecija and San Miguel, Bulacan yesterday.

Binay is also scheduled to visit today Catarman in Northern Samar, which was also hit by Nona. At least 10,000 people were displaced in the province.

Nona slammed the country last week, leaving at least 35 people dead and 24 others injured.

Onyok, which dissipated yesterday, also dumped rain in parts of Visayas and Mindanao.