FLOODING in Metro Manila and across the Philippines is no longer just a seasonal inconvenience.
At the forefront of this national mission stand six distinguished leaders, all The Outstanding Filipino Laureates.
Ramon Ang’s commitment to rehabilitate Metro Manila’s waterways without burdening the government includes desilting major rivers, relocating obstructive structures, and building replacement infrastructure that enhances flow and safety.
LEADING CHANGE Together, these leaders offer more than solutions; they present a unified blueprint for flood management that is technically sound, socially inclusive, and scalable across regions. PHOTO FROM TOFIL LAUREATES
Hans Sy, chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime Holdings, is a leading advocate for private sector-driven disaster resilience. Under his leadership, SM Prime has embedded elevated mall designs, rainwater catchment systems, and earthquake-resistant structures into its developments.
Glenn Banaguas, the first and only Filipino recipient of the prestigious UN Sasakawa Award for Disaster Risk Reduction, is the founder of the Environmental and Climate Change Research Institute and the architect of “Climate Smart Philippines: Science for Service.”
Alfredo Mahar Francisco Lagmay’s pioneering work in real-time hazard mapping, flood forecasting, and community-level risk assessments has empowered citizens to take proactive measures before disasters strike.
Felino “Jun” Palafox Jr. advocates for elevated structures, integrated green spaces, and water-sensitive design to align urban development with environmental stewardship.
As DPWH Secretary, Rogelio “Babes” Singson championed transparency reforms and led the Metro Manila Flood Management Master Plan, promoting long-term solutions for disaster resilience.
