Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson said he would push to reduce Metro Manila’s flood control management budget in the 2026 national spending plan if the government accepts San Miguel Corporation (SMC) Chairman and CEO Ramon Ang’s offer to address the capital’s flooding problem for free.
Ang, in a press briefing with Manila City Mayor Isko Moreno Domagoso and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Atty. Don Artes, announced he was ready to help the government solve the city’s recurring flood woes during calamities.
“Ako, San Miguel, Ramon Ang, nagvo-volunteer ako ngayon, ako na ang tutulong sa buong Metro Manila, sa baha, at no cost to the people, at no cost to the government,” Ang said.
Lacson welcomed the proposal, noting it could also prevent some officials from using “flood control projects” as a source of corruption.
“Pag nag-on board ang mga malalaking negosyante para tumulong, ako mismo mag move para [bawasan] sa 2026 GAA ang katumbas ng gagastusin ng private sector. Ergo, makakatipid at kabawasan yun sa uutangin natin, at bawas din yun sa nanakawin ng mga kawatan,” Lacson said.