11/07/2025
Flooded Again: High Tide Disrupts Dagupan City’s Business District Despite Infrastructure Efforts
By Janice Hidalgo | July 11, 2025
DAGUPAN CITY — Parts of A.B. Fernandez Avenue in Dagupan City’s main business district were once again flooded this July 11 due to high tide, frustrating motorists, pedestrians, and business owners alike — despite previous road elevation and drainage projects meant to prevent such incidents.
While the floodwater reached only ankle level, its condition was far from harmless. Dark, silted, and filled with slippery lumot (algae), the water emitted a foul odor that lingered throughout the area. Commuters carefully maneuvered through the slick, dirty flood, with some slipping or hesitating to cross the road entirely.
Several businesses were affected, including a well-known donut store that chose to temporarily close after water seeped into the premises. Staff members were seen mopping floors and attempting to block water from entering further. “We just couldn’t continue operating with the water inside — it smells bad and it’s a risk to both our staff and customers,” an employee shared.
This incident comes despite past efforts by the city to elevate roads and improve drainage along key commercial areas. However, experts say the underlying issues — including silted rivers, poor waste disposal, and inadequate water flow systems — remain unaddressed.
“Raising the road is only one part of the solution,” explained a local urban planner. “If the drainage is clogged and the waterways are full of silt and garbage, the water has nowhere to go. It will always find its way back onto the streets.”
As the city continues to deal with the dual pressures of urban development and climate challenges, residents and entrepreneurs are calling for more sustainable and long-term solutions. For now, Dagupan’s business district continues to suffer the brunt of recurring floods — not deep, but dirty enough to disrupt daily life and economic activity.