CITY OF SAN FERNANDO — The provincial government of Pampanga has urged residents in flood-prone communities to prepare for a possible rise in water levels following a warning from the National Irrigation Administration regarding the release of water from Cong Dadong Dam in Arayat town.
Gov. Lilia “Nanay” Pineda said NIA reported that the dam’s water level had reached 9.7 meters, significantly above its reported 6.5-meter capacity, leaving the agency with no option but to release water to manage the rising level.
“Ang kaya lang ng Dadong Dam ay 6.5 lang ang level ng tubig, pero ngayon nag-9.7. So, wala silang choice kung hindi buksan yung dam, magpakawala ng tubig,” Pineda said.
She warned that the release could temporarily add to floodwaters flowing toward downstream areas, particularly in the towns of Macabebe, Masantol, San Luis, San Simon, and Apalit, which are already vulnerable to flooding.
“Nananawagan kami sa inyo na kailangan mag-prepare kayo,” Pineda said, particularly reminding communities to consider the combined effects of existing floodwaters, high tide, and the additional water coming from upstream.
The governor said the situation is being aggravated by the unusually heavy volume of rainfall in the past days, which has placed pressure on rivers, tributaries and other waterways across the province.
Pineda emphasized that the water release is a necessary measure to manage the dam’s rising water level and that the increase in downstream water levels is expected to be temporary.
“Sandali lang naman ito. Pag nakawala naman ito, talagang babalik sa normal,” she said, while urging residents to remain vigilant until conditions stabilize.
The provincial government is coordinating with NIA, Department of Public Works and Highways, and concerned local government units to monitor water levels and prepare communities that may be affected.
Pineda said the provincial government continues to maintain 24/7 monitoring and communication with local officials, particularly in areas at risk of further flooding.
Meanwhile, residents who need assistance, including those experiencing medical emergencies, were urged to immediately coordinate with their barangay officials, mayors or municipal disaster risk reduction and management offices so that the provincial government can facilitate appropriate assistance.
The governor reiterated that residents should remain alert to official advisories and prepare their families for possible changes in water levels as authorities continue monitoring the situation.