Imus Retarding Basin Turned Over to Cavite Provincial Government, Strengthening Flood Resilience

The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) witnessed the formal turnover by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) of the Imus Retarding Basin to the Cavite Provincial Government on September 1, 2026.

The ceremony brought together key representatives from JICA and the national government to formally transfer ownership of the facility to the local government of Cavite. Present in the ceremony is JICA Chief Representative BABA Takashi, and national and local officials including DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon and DPWH Senior Undersecretary Emil Sadain, Cavite Governor Francisco Gabriel Remulla, Vice-Governor Ramon Revilla Bautista, former governor and current DILG Secretary Jonvic Remulla, and City of Imus Mayor Alex Advincula.

The Imus Retarding Basin forms part of the Flood Risk Management Project for Cagayan River, Tagoloan River and Imus River (FRIMP-CTI), a project financed by the Government of Japan through JICA and implemented by DPWH to address flooding in Cavite, particularly in the cities of Imus and Bacoor.

First inaugurated in 2021, the 35-hectare Imus Retarding Basin now enters a new phase with its turnover to the Cavite Provincial Government, ensuring the continued operation and maintenance of the flood protection facility, while strengthening local capacity for flood risk management and disaster preparedness. The first-of-its-kind, man-made reservoir played a critical role in managing excess floodwater during heavy rainfall caused by events such as Typhoon Carina and Kristine in 2024, and most recently during Habagat in early August 2026.

JICA recognizes that this milestone is only possible with the strong cooperation of DPWH, Cavite Provincial Government, the City Government of Imus, local stakeholders, consultants, and contractors. Through this partnership among stakeholders, the facility overcame challenges brought by the pandemic, construction limitations and matters regarding right-of-way. Further demonstrating that there is a shared responsibility in improving safety and resilience of communities, such as in Imus, Cavite.

The facility will help manage excess floodwater during periods of intense rainfall by temporarily storing water and releasing it into the river at a regulated flow rate. The Imus River and its tributaries, including the Bacoor River, complement the JICA's ongoing Cavite Industrial Area Flood Risk Management Project and help minimize disruptions to communities and economic activities, particularly in Cavite's industrial areas. Aside from reducing immediate risks, investments in flood management strengthen long-term resilience and preparedness against increasingly frequent and severe weather events.

Marking 70 years of Philippine‑Japan friendship, the project reflects JICA’s continued support in building infrastructure that is safe, resilient and responsive to the aspirations of the Filipino nation.