The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Laguna Lake Development Authority (LLDA) are exploring the revival of the proposed ₱90-billion Parañaque Spillway Project to boost Laguna de Bay’s fisheries, flood management, and water quality.
The DA noted that the proposed 10.5-kilometer underground spillway, connecting Laguna de Bay to Manila Bay, would reduce recurring flooding in Laguna, Rizal and Metro Manila while rehabilitating the lake.
“Laguna de Bay is one of Metro Manila’s most important food baskets and our most affordable source of bangus,” Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. said.
“If we restore the lake’s health by improving water circulation and managing floods better, we can raise fish production, increase fisherfolk incomes, and improve raw water quality, which could eventually help lower water treatment costs for consumers,” he added.
First conceived in the 1970s, the project takes on added importance alongside the planned Japanese-funded Manggahan Control Gate Structure. LLDA General Manager Leopoldo Parumog warned that while the Manggahan project mitigates Marikina River flooding, it could elevate water levels in Laguna de Bay.
Despite expected a 10-year construction timeline and past opposition from Muntinlupa City over Barangay Buli, the DA and LLDA will coordinate with the DPWH, DENR, local governments and the private sector to build consensus.
“The challenge is to show that this is not simply another flood-control project,” Tiu Laurel said.
“Done right, it is an investment in food security, climate resilience, and long-term water sustainability that will benefit millions of Filipinos.”