In recent years, residents of Calapan City in Oriental Mindoro have been facing severe flooding due to inadequate flood control systems. I have witnessed firsthand the devastation this causes, as families are displaced, schools are interrupted, and businesses suffer financial setbacks. It’s heartbreaking to see our community living in constant fear as heavy rains loom, with each downpour threatening to disrupt the lives and livelihoods of so many.

To illustrate the gravity of the situation, a report from the local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office noted that the annual rainfall has significantly increased, overwhelming our outdated drainage systems that were not designed to handle such volumes. During the last typhoon season, over 1,000 families had to evacuate from low-lying areas, and the city incurred millions in damages.

Upgrading our flood control infrastructure is not just a necessity but an urgent requirement to ensure the safety of all Calapan residents. This includes the construction of more efficient drainage systems, the enhancement of existing flood barriers, and regular maintenance checks to ensure functionality. Implementing these changes would protect our community from future devastation and allow us to live without the constant anxiety that accompanies the storm season.

This petition calls on the local government of Oriental Mindoro, national agencies, and relevant stakeholders to prioritize and fund these critical upgrades. By investing in comprehensive flood control solutions, they can safeguard our city and prevent the recurring cycle of destruction and recovery.

Your support is crucial. Sign this petition to demand immediate action from our authorities. Together, we can build a resilient community that thrives despite the challenges posed by natural calamities.