A student stands in floodwater in Quezon City, the Philippines, on Aug. 17, 2026. (Xinhua/Rouelle Umali)
Manila: A flood control project in Sablayan town, Occidental Mindoro province, in the western Philippines collapsed during heavy rains last week, submerging nearby communities and rice fields, local media reported on Sunday.
According to local media GMA News, the collapsed section of the project measures around 300 to 500 meters, allowing floodwaters to pour into adjacent communities after downpours on Aug. 18-19.
A village official told local media that the contractor failed to complete the project and used substandard steel rebars. Residents fear more damage if rains return.
