Laguna Launches Major Flood Control Project as Gov. Aragones, SMC’s Ramon Ang Seal Partnership

Laguna Gov. Sol Aragones and San Miguel Corporation (SMC) President Ramon Ang formally signed a memorandum of agreement to begin a large-scale dredging and flood control project aimed at protecting communities across the province. The signing coincided with the governor’s 48th birthday, turning the occasion into a milestone for public welfare.

Aragones expressed gratitude to Ang for providing both technical support and full funding for the initiative at no cost to the provincial government. Ang said SMC has already begun dredging several river systems in Laguna, which has contributed to the noticeable reduction of flooding in areas near SLEX.

“Kung mapapansin ninyo yung mga dumadaan ng SLEX, wala nang baha. Nahukay na kasi namin ang mga ilog sa tulong ng kooperasyon ng mga LGU. Within one year kaya naming linisin lahat,” Ang noted.

Aragones emphasized that the project not only addresses flooding but also eases the fears of residents, especially parents concerned about their children’s safety during heavy rains. She called the partnership a turning point for Laguna’s development and long-term security.

Ang urged the public to help sustain the effort by avoiding the dumping of waste into rivers. He appealed to lawmakers to consider legislation preventing river reclamation for industrial use and reminded local governments to maintain their riverways with equipment such as barges and backhoes.

“This is free,” Ang reiterated. “Ang bayad lang po ni Governor sa akin ay cooperation, for the good of the people.”

SMC presented a detailed map identifying priority rivers for dredging, with the goal of restoring natural water flow obstructed by years of silt buildup, pollution, and encroachment.

Also present was Congressman Arman Dimaguila, who is advocating for a bill to institutionalize long-term dredging and flood mitigation programs in Laguna.

With the project now underway, thousands of residents in flood-prone areas stand to benefit—making the governor’s birthday a celebration marked by meaningful action and lasting impact.