MARIKINA CITY, Philippines – [Current Date]
Marikina Flooding Crisis: Non-Operational Pumping Stations Spark Outrage, Rep. Quimbo Demands Immediate Suspension and Investigation
In a deeply concerning turn of events amidst escalating floodwaters, Marikina City Rep. Miro Quimbo has launched an urgent call for the immediate suspension of both the contractor and operator responsible for the Iwahig and Tumana Pumping Stations. The demand comes after Quimbo personally witnessed the critical flood-mitigation facilities standing idle and unattended, even as heavy rains battered the area, pushing the Marikina River to a second alarm.
“I went there myself because our people in Tumana were telling us that the pumping stations are not working. I wanted to see for myself, and what I found was deeply concerning—the facilities were not operational, and there were no personnel attending to it,” Quimbo stated, visibly frustrated by the observed negligence.
The Congressman revealed that he had proactively engaged with the contractor prior to the current crisis, specifically urging them to ensure the operational readiness of the pumping stations. His prior warnings, however, appear to have been disregarded.
“I personally reached out to the operator and told them to make sure the pumping stations are working. What is unacceptable is that I was not told that the stations were still not operational even while we’re under red rainfall warning,” he added, highlighting a severe breakdown in communication and responsibility.
The Iwahig and Tumana pumping stations are vital infrastructure projects, specifically designed and constructed to manage and significantly reduce the impact of flooding in the vulnerable Marikina area. Their intended purpose is to protect communities from the devastating effects of high water levels, particularly during severe weather conditions like the current Habagat-induced heavy rains.
“At a time when our people desperately need these facilities to work, a pumping station cannot simply be left unattended. These are not ordinary equipment—we are talking about infrastructure that is supposed to protect communities from flooding,” Quimbo emphasized, underscoring the critical nature of these facilities and the potential consequences of their failure.
Demand for Accountability: DPWH Investigation and Contractor Suspension
In response to the alarming discovery, Rep. Quimbo has directly appealed to Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon. He has urged Secretary Dizon to initiate an immediate and thorough investigation into the incident, alongside the swift suspension of J.D. Legaspi Construction, identified as both the operator and contractor for the non-functional stations.
“I am calling on Secretary Vince Dizon to immediately suspend this operator and conduct a full investigation. If negligence is established, there must be consequences,” Quimbo asserted, making it clear that he expects swift and decisive action.
The Congressman further articulated a zero-tolerance stance against any shortcomings in service delivery that jeopardize public safety. “There is no room for substandard service, negligence, or abandonment when the safety and livelihood of our people are at stake,” he declared.
Marikina River at Second Alarm: A Plea for Public Safety
Quimbo’s urgent plea comes as the water level in the Marikina River continues to rise, reaching a critical second alarm amidst sustained heavy rains caused by the prevailing Habagat monsoon. This perilous situation underscores the immediate and dire need for all flood control mechanisms to be fully operational.
“The people of Marikina have endured enough. We cannot wait for people to lose their homes, livelihoods, or even their lives again before we demand accountability. Every pumping station must be operational when our communities need it most,” Quimbo stressed, his words a powerful testament to the residents’ past struggles and current anxieties.
The incident at the Iwahig and Tumana Pumping Stations highlights a severe lapse in flood preparedness and operational oversight, prompting serious questions about accountability and the robustness of emergency protocols for critical infrastructure in vulnerable areas. The communities of Marikina now await the DPWH’s response and the immediate actions that will follow this shocking revelation.
