Mayor Carmelo “Pogi” Lazatin, Jr. has formally requested the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to provide essential equipment for the Joint Drainage Declogging Operation across the city. The letter, sent on October 31, 2024, to Engr. Arnold Ocampo, Officer-in-Charge District Engineer of Pampanga 3rd DEO, outlined cleanup activities, initially focused on Sto. Entierro Street and Barangay Balibago.

“This joint effort underscores our proactive approach to address drainage issues in flood-prone areas, especially as we prepare for the rainy season,” Mayor Lazatin stated.

Helen Ayro, Officer-in-Charge of the City Engineer’s Office, will work with DPWH representatives to ensure efficient coordination and timely completion of the project.

Scheduled of Cleanup Activities:
📌 October 30, 2024: Initial drainage declogging along Burgos and Jesus Streets, particularly on the route to Holy Rosary Parish Church.
📌 October 31, 2024: Preparation of necessary construction materials.
📌 November 4, 2024: Sidewalk excavation to add drainage inlets, with DPWH providing equipment, including a backhoe and six maintenance workers.
📌 November 5, 2024 onwards: Fabrication and installation of drainage grills and reinforced steel structures.

Mayor Lazatin also requested technical staff from both the City Engineer’s Office and DPWH to survey key areas, including Angeles-Magalang Road and 1st Street, for further improvement recommendations.

The cleanup plan follows an October 29 meeting between Mayor Lazatin and DPWH representatives Rolando Gonzales and Ma. Abigail Delos Reyes, attended by Councilor Arvin “Pogs” Suller, Lazatin’s Chief Adviser IC Calaguas, and Executive Assistant IV Reina Manuel, to strategize the canal and drainage cleanup.