The Poblacion area of Candaba town has remained free from flooding, according to Mayor Rene Maglanque.
While other municipalities along the Pampanga River continue to experience flooding, Maglanque said the town proper of Candaba remained dry and accessible to all types of vehicles.
Candaba is among the flood-prone areas in the province due to its low-lying terrain and proximity to the Pampanga River, which functions as a natural catch basin for upstream waters.
In previous years, only large trucks could pass through the submerged town center during severe flooding.
Maglanque attributed this development to the construction of a cut-off channel, which redirects water current.
“Simula noong naipagawa natin ang cut-off channel, hindi na kinakailangan ng libreng sakay ng mga malalaking truck dahil passable ang lahat ng daanan natin dito,” Maglanque said.
The cut-off channel project was implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways and former Fourth District Representative Juan Pablo “Rimpy” Bondoc. It was completed in 2021.
The mayor said road upgrading projects, he initiated during his first term in 2016, provides mobility despite the persistent rains.
“May mga parte pa rin ng Candaba na binaha, lalo na ‘yung sa Pinak kasi mababa talaga ‘yun. Pero dito sa Poblacion, nakita na natin ang epekto ng mga naging proyekto natin,” Maglanque said.