WHY FLOODS KEEP GETTING WORSE IN THE PHILIPPINES

In the past few decades, the Philippines rarely experienced the kind of flooding we see today. Back then, when a typhoon hit, we would hear about strong winds, fallen trees, and power interruptions — but not massive floods submerging homes and vehicles. Fast forward to today, every time there’s a tropical storm or typhoon, we brace ourselves for one familiar headline: “Homes submerged in floodwaters.”  

So, what changed?  

One of the biggest reasons lies in urban development. In recent years, many subdivisions and housing projects have been built along riverbanks, low-lying areas, and flood-prone zones. Decades ago, these areas were left open as part of the natural drainage and floodplain system — meaning they were designed by nature to hold excess water during heavy rains. But today, they’re filled with concrete, houses, and roads that block the natural flow of water.  

What’s even more concerning is that developers market these properties as “prime locations”, offering high-end houses near rivers or scenic valleys, without disclosing the real risks. Buyers are drawn to the beauty of the view, not realizing that during the rainy season, these same areas can quickly turn into disaster zones.  

The truth is, nature hasn’t changed — but our land use and planning have. Rivers still overflow during storms, but the difference now is that there are entire neighborhoods sitting right where the floodwaters naturally go.  

Maybe it’s time for the government to rethink housing permits. Developers should not be allowed to build residential communities near riverbanks or floodplains. These zones should remain green spaces or be used for flood control and watershed management. If stricter regulations were enforced, we wouldn’t have to panic every time PAGASA issues a storm bulletin.  

Before, we didn’t need massive flood control projects — because the rivers had room to breathe. Now, as we keep shrinking that space with concrete walls and gated communities, we’re paying the price.  

The lesson is clear: we can’t fight nature, but we can live smarter alongside it.  

#Philippines #Flooding #UrbanDevelopment #EnvironmentalAwareness