MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday said the proper execution of government projects could have helped prevent recurring flash floods, after Metro Manila and nearby areas were again inundated following heavy rains.

The President earlier inspected flood control projects in Bulacan reported to the Sumbong sa Pangulo website, where he discovered substandard and non-existent structures that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) had listed as completed.

“You know, if all of these projects were properly executed and implemented, ang laki nang nawala na problema sana sa atin at saka sa mga taumbayan. At saka mas magiging maayos hanggang irrigation, hanggang water supply, fresh water supply for household,” Marcos said during an interview after finding a “ghost” project in Barangay Piel, Baliuag, Bulacan on Wednesday.

The Chief Executive ordered the blacklisting of contractors and the filing of graft and economic sabotage charges against those responsible for falsified flood control projects.

On Friday, flash floods hit parts of Metro Manila due to a heavy downpour, forcing several local government units to suspend classes and worsening traffic gridlock.

The President has directed that all irregularities in flood control projects be investigated through sumbongsapangulo.ph, the complaint portal created in line with his directive during his fourth State of the Nation Address (SONA).