For years, more than 200 families in Zone 3, Barangay Malabago in Mangaldan, Pangasinan endured flooding even with light rain because of the absence of proper water outlet in the area.

Residents said the problem worsened after road elevations left their homes vulnerable to water pooling in their yards.

"Syempre, ‘yung kalsada tinaasan, ‘yung mga bahay naman hindi nagtaas, kaya ang problema baha dito sa amin," Rudy Ballestero, a resident, said.

Barangay Malabago officials acknowledged the issue and see the construction of a drainage canal as the solution.

However, limited funds delayed the project until the local government provided financial support.

The canal's construction is now underway and is expected to be completed by the end of November 2024.

"Malaking tulong kasi ito [sa] iskinita, at least may dadaanan na ang tubig, hindi na diyan mababaha," Barangay Councilman Quirino Raguindin said.

The 120-meter canal will direct floodwater to Payas Creek.