Valenzuela City is taking significant strides to address flooding challenges with the introduction of its first-ever water catchment facility along McArthur Highway, a known flood-prone area. Announced by Mayor Wes Gatchalian, the Panatag Water Catchment project aims to improve flood management and safeguard residents from frequent disruptions caused by heavy rainfall.

Situated in Barangay Dalandanan, the project is in collaboration with the Department of Transportation (DOTr). The initial phase features a structure measuring 230 meters in length, 5.6 meters in depth, and 3 meters in width, designed to hold up to 3,000 cubic meters of floodwater. This capacity is expected to significantly reduce waterlogging during storms.

Mayor Gatchalian assured the public of the project's commitment to stringent construction and safety standards, stating, "This is not an overnight project, and it will not be a ghost project." He emphasized the city's dedication to quality and durability throughout the development process.

Complementing the physical infrastructure is Valenzuela's adoption of innovative technology through the launch of ATMOS (Advanced Telemetry Management and Observation System). This sophisticated monitoring network integrates rain gauges, water level sensors, automatic weather stations, and IP cameras, all connected via a robust wireless mesh network. The system enables real-time flood data collection and faster emergency responses.

Mayor Gatchalian highlighted the proactive approach, saying, "With Panatag and ATMOS, Valenzuela is not just reacting to floods, but anticipating them." The city is positioning itself as a frontrunner in enhancing urban flood resilience within Metro Manila.

Residents and commuters using McArthur Highway can expect improved flood mitigation measures, reducing disruptions caused by heavy rains and contributing to a safer, smarter urban environment.