San Miguel Corp. Steps Up to Tackle Flooding Issues
In a heartfelt commitment to the community, Ramon Ang, the chairman of San Miguel Corporation (SMC), recently announced the company’s readiness to address a pressing issue that has plagued the North Luzon Expressway, particularly in the area of San Simon, Pampanga. During a press conference at SMC’s headquarters in Mandaluyong, Ang shed light on the root cause of the flooding: a clogged waterway near Tulaoc Bridge.
Ang expressed his belief that this blockage is contributing to the overflowing waters from the Pantabangan Dam, which have been making their way toward Candaba and San Simon without reaching the Pampanga River, where it needs to go. His words were filled with empathy, recognizing the frustrations of residents affected by the floods.
At the same time, tensions are rising in the community, as evidenced by a protest led by local groups. In a recent report by Raffy Tima for 24 Oras, demonstrators took to the streets, even on the holiday of National Heroes Day, to voice their concerns. They highlighted their belief that the ongoing construction of an airport in Bulacan is exacerbating the flooding situation. “Magpatupad ng totoong solusyon,” urged David D’Angelo, president of Kalikasan Muna, calling for genuine solutions to the crisis.
While Ang firmly dismissed claims linking the new airport to the flooding, he remains open to solutions. His plans include utilizing a lidar drone to identify blockages and deploying machinery like backhoes to remove them. Ang confidently stated that this effort could potentially clear the clogged waterway within a week, bringing relief and preventing future floods on NLEX.
Moreover, he spoke about a broader initiative: dredging rivers leading to Manila Bay, a process that he estimates will take three months. This could significantly improve water flow and greatly alleviate flooding woes in the area.
Ang also clarified some misconceptions regarding the airport project. He reassured the public that the New Manila International Airport is not being constructed on reclaimed land but rather within the shoreline of Barangay Taliptip in Bulakan. He emphasized that the project is independent of the Angat River, and therefore, should not cause flooding in Pampanga.
In a time when communities are grappling with natural disasters, the proactive approach from San Miguel Corp. and the compassionate leadership of Ramon Ang shine as a beacon of hope. As residents band together to seek solutions, it’s clear that the call for change resonates deeply. In the face of adversity, unity and action can lead to brighter days ahead.
