Photo credit: DPWH

Good news for motorists and residents around Araneta Avenue. The long-awaited drainage improvements in the area are expected to be completed before March, according to Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon.

The DPWH is fast-tracking the rehabilitation of drainage systems along Araneta Avenue as part of the government’s preparations for the upcoming rainy season. The move follows President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to ensure that drainage systems nationwide are fully functional to help reduce flooding.

Secretary Dizon said the project is especially critical, noting that floodwaters in the area can rise more than two to three meters during heavy rains. With the weather currently clear, the agency is pushing to maximize construction time and finish all major works before June.

“We’re taking advantage of the dry days. We need to go all out now so that before June, we can at least ease the flooding here,” Dizon said during an inspection of the ongoing drainage works along Araneta Avenue.

Aside from drainage upgrades and continuous dredging, the DPWH will also dismantle illegal structures in the area. These obstructions have long blocked the natural flow of water, particularly along sections of Araneta Avenue and E. Rodriguez Avenue. Once cleared, water is expected to flow more smoothly toward the San Juan River, helping prevent severe flooding.

Officials remain optimistic that once completed, the project will bring much-needed relief to communities that have long struggled with floodwaters during the rainy season.