MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. said the government has begun implementing a flood control master plan that had existed for decades but was never fully carried out.

“We already have a master plan. It's just never been executed. We are only executing it now,” Marcos told on Wednesday after inspecting repair works at a collapsed bridge in Tarlac.

“We have had a master plan for decades pero walang ginawa. Ngayon lang natin sinisimulan,” he added.

The President made the statement as Central Luzon, Metro Manila and other parts of Luzon continue to deal with widespread flooding caused by heavy monsoon rains.

The flooding has renewed calls for long-term measures aimed at reducing flood risks, particularly in areas repeatedly affected by severe weather.

Malacañang has pushed for the implementation of measures such as improving waterways and drainage systems, strengthening land-use planning and addressing structures or developments that obstruct natural water flow.

Marcos also directed national agencies and local governments to enforce existing laws and no-build zones, stressing that disaster preparedness and compliance with regulations are necessary to lessen the impact of extreme weather events.

The President said the government would continue adjusting its disaster preparedness and infrastructure strategies as communities face increasingly severe weather conditions associated with climate change.