The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) began dredging works today along the Gugu River beside the Bacolor-Sto. Tomas-Minalin Tail Dike in Minalin, Pampanga, as part of efforts to reduce flooding risks in nearby communities during the rainy season.

The dredging project comes after the river, which serves as a catchment basin, remained without deepening works for about 15 years.

The initiative follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive for the DPWH to intensify its Oplan Kontra Baha flood-control program.

DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon inspected the heavy equipment deployed for the project, accompanied by Pampanga Vice Governor Dennis Pineda and Minalin Mayor Philip Naguit.

The river deepening is expected to improve its water-holding capacity and flow, helping mitigate flooding during periods of heavy rainfall.