Two flood control structures in Arayat, Pampanga, were severely damaged on Friday, exacerbating ongoing concerns about flood safety in the region.
Recent Flood Control Failures and Community Risks
The damaged portion is located near the foot of Mt. Arayat and adjacent to agricultural land.
Engineer Vea Baracao, Arayat local government
- 50-meter section of the San Mateo flood control system collapsed.
- 30-meter portion of the Lacquios flood control system was damaged.
Despite no rainfall on the day of the incident, a 50-meter stretch of the P291-million San Mateo flood control system gave way. The structure, designed to protect surrounding communities from flooding, now leaves over 200 families in the area fearing inundation.
This incident follows a troubling history. The Candating flood control system, also in Pampanga, experienced a collapse in August 2024 during Super Typhoon Carina and was damaged again in September 2025, collapsing for a third time in January 2026.
Local officials, including Arayat Mayor Jeffrey Luriz, had previously reported visible cracks in the San Mateo flood control structure to Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon. Dizon assured that an inspection team would assess the integrity of the system.
Following these inspections, concerns were raised that water from the Pampanga River had eroded the structure's base over time, contributing to its failure.
Mayor Luriz has informed Pampanga Vice Governor Dennis Pineda of the situation, emphasizing the urgency of repairs before the onset of further weather disturbances.
San Mateo village chief Wilfredo Sonza has called for immediate action from government engineers to rehabilitate the dike to prevent further risks to the community.