EVALUATING THE ECONOMIC SOCIAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS

OF EMPLEMENTING SUSTAINABLE STORMWATER RUN OFF

MANAGEMENT IN DAGUPAN CITY

Thesis
Presented to the faculty of
College of Engineering
Lyceum-Northwestern University
Tapuac District, Dagupan City, Pangasinan

In Partial Fulfillment of
The Requirements for the Degree
Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering

By:

Leanne Ala Ali Bahman

Jusfer Grande

AUGUST 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page

List of Tables …………………………………………………………………………. iv

List of Figures .…………………………………………………………………………. v

Chapter 1. INTRODUCTION

Rationale and Background of the Study ………………………………… 1

Theoretical/ Conceptual Framework ………………………………… 2

Research Paradigm ………………………………………………….. 3

Statement of the Problem ………………………………………………… 4

Objectives of the Study …………………………………………………. 4

Significance of the Study …………………………………………………. 5

Scope and Limitations of the Study ……………………………………… 6

Definition of Terms ………………………………………………………. 8

Chapter II. REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

Foreign Related Literature ……………………………………………… 11

Local Related Literature ……………………………………………………. 19

Chapter III. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

Research Design ……………………………………………………………. 24

Sources of Data …………………………………………………………….. 26

Instrumentation and Data Collection …………………………………… 26

Tools for Data Analysis

……………………………………………………. 27

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CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Rationale and Background of the Study

Dagupan City, located in the province of Pangasinan, is a highly

urbanized coastal city that serves as a regional center for commerce,

education, and fisheries. However, its low-lying geographic location,

combined with rapid urbanization and inadequate drainage infrastructure,

has made flooding a persistent and costly problem. During heavy rainfall

and high tide events, stormwater accumulates quickly in residential and

commercial areas, disrupting daily activities, damaging property, and

posing significant health risks.

Traditional drainage systems in Dagupan have focused primarily on

rapid conveyance—directing water through canals and pipes to nearby

rivers or coastal outlets. While this approach temporarily removes water

from urban streets, it fails to address the root cause of stormwater

buildup: the loss of natural infiltration due to paved surfaces, compacted

soil, and urban sprawl. As a result, flooding continues to occur, often

exacerbated by climate change, sea-level rise, and land subsidence.

Sustainable Stormwater Runoff Management (SSRM) offers an

alternative solution by integrating green infrastructure and nature-based

practices such as permeable pavements, bioswales, rain gardens,

detention ponds, and rainwater harvesting systems. Instead of treating

stormwater as a waste product to be disposed of quickly, SSRM treats it as

a resource that can be absorbed, filtered, and stored for beneficial use.

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International studies have demonstrated that the implementation of

Sustainable Stormwater Runoff Management (SSRM) provides a wide

range of social, economic, and environmental benefits. Socially, SSRM

contributes to reduced flooding risks, enhanced public safety, and the

promotion of healthier communities. Economically, it offers cost savings

by minimizing flood damage repair, increases property values, and

stimulates job creation through the development and maintenance of

green infrastructure projects. Environmentally, SSRM improves water

quality, enhances groundwater recharge, and supports greater urban

biodiversity, thereby promoting more resilient and sustainable urban

ecosystems.

Despite these proven outcomes in other countries and cities,

Dagupan has yet to fully explore or evaluate the potential of SSRM in

addressing its flooding and urban water challenges. Most local responses

remain reactive rather than preventive, focusing on drainage rehabilitation

and post-disaster recovery instead of sustainable, long-term solutions.

This study seeks to evaluate the social, economic, and

environmental benefits of adopting SSRM practices in Dagupan. By

examining how sustainable systems can mitigate flooding impacts, protect

livelihoods, and enhance ecological resilience, the research aims to

provide evidence-based recommendations for local government policy,

infrastructure planning, and community participation.

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1.2 Theoretical / Conceptual Framework

This theory emphasizes meeting present needs without

compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. Applied to

stormwater management, it supports the integration of economic, social,

and environmental considerations in designing infrastructure that is both

effective and sustainable.

Figure 1.1 Theoretical/Conceptual Framework

This study illustrates the relationship between the implementation of

SSRM and its expected social, economic, and environmental benefits.

SSRM practices such as green infrastructure, permeable pavements,

detention basins, and community engagement programs act as the

independent variable, influencing various dependent outcomes. Socially,

these practices aim to reduce flood risks, improve public health, and

increase community participation in environmental protection.

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Economically, SSRM can lower costs associated with flood damages,

enhance property values, and reduce expenses for stormwater

management and water treatment. Environmentally, SSRM contributes to

improved water quality, enhanced urban biodiversity, and reduced surface

runoff and erosion. Collectively, these benefits demonstrate that

sustainable stormwater management not only addresses urban flooding

challenges but also promotes the overall sustainability, resilience, and

well-being of Dagupan City.

1.3 Research Paradigm

INPUTS INTERVENING
FACTORS
(SSRM)
-Green -Local Government
Infrastructures Policies
-Permeable Pavement - Community
-Basins Awareness &
-community Participation
Engagement -Environmental
Conditions

OUTPUTS INPUTS
OUTPUTS
SOCIAL BENEFITS ENVIRONMENTAL
-Health ECONOMIC BENEFITS BENEFITS
-Safety -Cost Saving -Water Quality
-Community -Property Valuue -Biodiversity
Engagement -jobs -Flood Mitgation

Figure 1.2 Research Paradigm

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This study illustrates the relationship between the implementation

of Sustainable Stormwater Runoff Management (SSRM) as the

independent variable and its impact on the social, economic, and

environmental benefits as the dependent variables. SSRM includes

strategies such as green infrastructure, permeable pavements, detention

ponds, and community engagement, which serve as the main inputs of the

study. The effectiveness of these strategies may be influenced by

intervening factors, including local government policies, community

awareness and participation, and environmental conditions, which can

either enhance or limit the outcomes. The dependent variables represent

the measurable benefits of SSRM: social benefits such as improved public

health, safety, and stronger community involvement; economic benefits

including reduced flood damage costs, increased property values, and

potential employment opportunities; and environmental benefits such as

improved water quality, biodiversity conservation, and flood mitigation.

This paradigm provides a structured framework for understanding how the

implementation of SSRM in Dagupan City can produce multiple positive

outcomes while considering factors that may affect its success.

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Statement Of The Problem

This study seeks to evaluate the potential benefits of implementing

sustainable stormwater runoff management (SSRM) in Dagupan to provide

a more comprehensive solution to flooding and water management issues.

Specifically, it aims to answer the following questions:

1. How can SSRM reduce flooding risk, improve public health and safety,

and enhance community quality of life?

2. What are the potential cost savings, property value protection, and

livelihood opportunities resulting from SSRM adoption?

3. How can SSRM improve water quality, increase groundwater recharge,

and protect local ecosystems?

4. What policy, funding, and community participation factors may

facilitate or hinder the successful adoption of SSRM in Dagupan?

Objective Of The Study

To evaluate the social, economic, and environmental benefits of

implementing sustainable stormwater runoff management (SSRM) in

Dagupan City as a basis for developing integrated and long-term flood

mitigation strategies.

 To assess the social benefits of SSRM in terms of reducing flood risk,

improving public health and safety, and enhancing community well-being.

 To determine the economic benefits of SSRM by examining potential

cost savings, protection of property values, and creation of livelihood

opportunities.

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 To analyze the environmental benefits of SSRM, including

improvements in water quality, groundwater recharge, and ecosystem

protection.

 To identify policy, funding, and community participation factors that

may influence the implementation and sustainability of SSRM projects

in Dagupan.

Significance Of The Study

This study is expected to provide valuable insights into the potential

of sustainable stormwater runoff management (SSRM) as an integrated

solution for the persistent flooding problems in Dagupan City. The results

of the study will benefit various sectors:

Local Government Units (LGUs).* The findings will serve as an

evidence-based reference for developing policies, ordinances, and flood

mitigation programs. By highlighting the social, economic, and

environmental benefits of SSRM, local leaders will be better equipped to

allocate resources more efficiently and implement infrastructure projects

that promote long-term resilience.

Urban Planners and Engineers. The study will provide technical

information on sustainable design approaches for stormwater systems,

offering guidance on cost-efficient and environmentally friendly strategies.

This will improve future urban planning initiatives and drainage system

designs in Dagupan and other flood-prone areas.

Community and Residents. The research will increase public

awareness of the benefits of sustainable stormwater solutions,

encouraging participation in local environmental programs. Communities

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are expected to benefit from reduced flood damage, improved public

health, and an enhanced overall quality of life.

Environmental Advocates and Researchers. The study will enrich

the literature on sustainable water management and climate-resilient

infrastructure. It may serve as a baseline reference for future research and

advocacy programs that aim to promote green infrastructure solutions in

urban environments.

Business Sector and Investors. By presenting the economic

advantages of SSRM—including reduced property damage, lower disaster

recovery costs, and improved business continuity—the study can

encourage private-sector investment in sustainable infrastructure and

partnerships with the local government.

Overall, this study seeks to bridge the gap between technical

feasibility, social acceptance, and policy action, ensuring that Dagupan’s

approach to stormwater management aligns with sustainable

development goals and benefits both present and future generations.

Scope And Delimitation Of The Study

This study focuses on evaluating the social, economic, and environmental

benefits of implementing Sustainable Stormwater Runoff Management

(SSRM) in Dagupan City, an urban area frequently affected by flooding due

to its low-lying topography and proximity to major river systems. The

research examines how sustainable approaches to stormwater

management can enhance community well-being, protect property and

livelihoods, and preserve environmental quality. The scope of the study is

limited to selected flood-prone barangays within Dagupan City where the

impacts of unmanaged runoff are most evident. It emphasizes three major

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dimensions: social benefits such as improved public safety, reduced health

risks, and greater community resilience; economic benefits including the

reduction of flood damages, protection of property values, and potential

cost savings for households and businesses; and environmental benefits

such as water quality improvement, groundwater recharge, and

ecosystem preservation. Data for the study are drawn from surveys,

interviews, and available records involving residents, business owners,

and local government officials. The study is confined to present conditions

and short-term projections and does not include long-term climate change

forecasts or hydrological modeling beyond the scope of current data.

The delimitations of this research are clearly defined to maintain its focus

and feasibility. The study does not involve the actual design, construction,

or implementation of SSRM systems, as its purpose is to evaluate potential

benefits rather than to produce an engineering design. Financial estimates

provided are indicative and do not constitute full feasibility or cost–benefit

studies. Moreover, the research excludes barangays with minimal or no

flooding concerns to ensure that findings are relevant to areas

experiencing significant runoff problems. Other urban infrastructure issues

are considered only when they directly relate to stormwater management.

End Target Beneficiaries

The study is expected to benefit the following sectors:

 Local residents: Reduced flooding impacts, improved safety, and

enhanced living conditions.

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 Business owners and commercial establishments: Decreased property

damage, reduced economic disruptions, and improved business

continuity.

 Local government agencies: Data-driven guidance for policy-making,

urban development, and disaster risk reduction initiatives.

 Civil engineering students and professionals: A practical reference for

applying sustainable engineering practices and designing stormwater

solutions.

 Future generations: Long-term environmental preservation, protected

water resources, and a more resilient urban ecosystem.

Definitions Of Terms

 Stormwater Runoff – Conceptually, stormwater runoff refers to

rainwater or melted snow flowing over impervious surfaces such as

roads, pavements, and rooftops instead of infiltrating into the ground.

Operationally, in this study, it pertains to the excess surface water

contributing to frequent flooding in Dagupan during heavy rainfall and

high tide conditions.

 Sustainable Stormwater Runoff Management (SSRM) –

Conceptually, SSRM is a system of practices designed to manage

excess water in an environmentally sound and economically efficient

manner. Operationally, this study focuses on the application of green

infrastructure such as permeable pavements, bioswales, retention

ponds, and rain gardens to mitigate flooding and its associated

impacts in Dagupan.

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 Green Infrastructure – Conceptually, this refers to engineered

systems that mimic natural processes using vegetation, soils, and

other elements to manage stormwater. Operationally, it covers

measures evaluated in this research, including vegetated swales and

infiltration trenches, as possible solutions for Dagupan’s drainage

issues.

 Social Benefits – Conceptually, social benefits are improvements in

community well-being, public safety, and quality of life arising from

infrastructure projects. Operationally, this study measures social

benefits in terms of reduced flood-related health risks, improved public

safety, and increased community participation in sustainable

practices.

 Economic Benefits – Conceptually, economic benefits refer to

financial gains or savings resulting from an intervention. Operationally,

this study evaluates economic benefits by assessing reduced flood

damage costs, minimized infrastructure repairs, and long-term savings

for both government and private stakeholders in Dagupan.

 Environmental Benefits – Conceptually, these are positive effects on

ecosystems and natural resources. Operationally, the study evaluates

environmental benefits by examining reduced water pollution,

groundwater recharge, and protection of urban waterways after

implementing sustainable runoff management practices.

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 Flood Resilience – Conceptually, flood resilience is the capacity to

anticipate, withstand, and recover from flood events. Operationally, in

this study, it refers to Dagupan’s ability to adapt to recurring floods

through sustainable stormwater strategies.

 Impervious Surfaces – Conceptually, these are urban surfaces such

as roads, pavements, and rooftops that prevent water infiltration.

Operationally, this study identifies these areas in Dagupan as major

contributors to uncontrolled stormwater flow.

 Sustainable Development – Conceptually, sustainable development

is defined by the Brundtland Commission (1987) as meeting present

needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet theirs.

Operationally, this study applies the concept to balance flood control

measures with economic growth and environmental protection in

Dagupan.

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CHAPTER II

REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE

This chapter presents the knowledge and findings relevant to the

research. The topics discussed and the literature cited has provided the

researcher with a deeper understanding of the topic.

2.1 Foreign Related Literature

Stormwater management has become a global priority in addressing

urban flooding, water pollution, and the impacts of rapid urbanization. The

implementation of sustainable stormwater runoff management (SSRM)

practices is widely recognized as a multi-benefit approach, addressing not

only technical drainage concerns but also social, economic, and

environmental dimensions.

2.1.1 Global Context of Sustainable Stormwater Management

According to Fletcher et al. (2015), the shift from conventional drainage

systems to sustainable solutions such as green infrastructure (GI) and low-

impact development (LID) reflects a growing need to integrate ecological

and social benefits in urban planning. Conventional systems often

prioritize quick water conveyance, which can worsen downstream flooding

and water quality issues (Roy et al., 2008). In contrast, sustainable

methods like permeable pavements, vegetated swales, and retention

ponds slow down runoff, reduce pollutant loads, and promote groundwater

recharge.

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The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA, 2016) highlighted that

SSRM practices in American cities generated long-term cost savings by

reducing infrastructure repair and flood damage expenses. Similar studies

in Europe by Alves et al. (2018) show that urban stormwater projects have

strengthened community resilience and reduced socio-economic

vulnerabilities by involving local populations in flood mitigation planning.

2.1.2 Social Benefits of Sustainable Stormwater Systems

Social impacts of SSRM extend beyond flood control. Brown et al. (2009)

emphasized that projects incorporating community participation improved

public awareness of environmental issues and fostered local ownership of

infrastructure. Improved public health outcomes have also been reported

in flood-prone areas due to reduced waterborne disease exposure (Ahern,

2011). Furthermore, aesthetically designed green infrastructure projects

enhance urban livability, providing recreational spaces and strengthening

community cohesion (Voskamp & Van de Ven, 2015).

2.1.3 Economic Benefits of Sustainable Approaches

Economic studies reveal that SSRM systems are cost-effective over the

long term. According to Li et al. (2017), sustainable solutions reduce

expenses related to flood damage, emergency response, and property

rehabilitation. A cost-benefit analysis by Chui et al. (2016) found that

investment in permeable pavements and bioretention cells in Hong Kong

provided significant returns on investment by extending infrastructure

lifespan and reducing maintenance needs. Similarly, New York City’s

Green Infrastructure Program demonstrated that every dollar spent on

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stormwater improvements generated multiple dollars in avoided damages

and economic benefits (NYC DEP, 2018).

2.1.4 Environmental Benefits and Climate Resilience

SSRM contributes significantly to environmental sustainability. Research

by Dietz (2007) demonstrated that rain gardens and bioswales improve

water quality by removing sediments, nutrients, and pollutants before

stormwater reaches natural waterways. Moreover, urban vegetation

integrated into stormwater projects improves air quality and mitigates the

urban heat island effect (Gill et al., 2007). Climate change adaptation

studies, such as those by Kundzewicz et al. (2014), argue that sustainable

drainage systems enhance flood resilience, which is crucial in coastal

cities like Dagupan, where sea-level rise and more intense rainfall events

are projected to increase flooding risks.

2.2 Local Studies

In the Philippines, several studies highlight the urgent need to address

urban flooding due to inadequate drainage systems. According to Santiago

and Roxas (2015), the country’s major cities experience recurrent flooding

exacerbated by poor waste management and insufficient stormwater

infrastructure. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH,

2020) has promoted sustainable drainage planning to align with the

Philippine Development Plan on disaster resilience. Locally, Dagupan City

has been identified as a high-risk flood zone due to its low elevation and

tidal influence (PAGASA, 2019). However, there is limited research

evaluating the integrated social, economic, and environmental benefits of

implementing SSRM projects in this specific urban setting.

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2.2.1 Dagupan’s Flood Risks and Governance

A comprehensive Flood Mitigation Master Plan (2019) by Dagupan’s local

government recommends primarily gray infrastructure—dikes, floodgates,

dredging, pumping stations—plus solid waste management and river →

tourist hub transformation.

The River Restoration Project (2023) highlights the chronic siltation in

rivers as a key contributor to flooding. The city is pursuing continuous

dredging, dike strengthening, road elevation, drainage upgrades, creek

rehabilitation, and pumping enhancements, with coordination between

city and national agencies.

2.2.2 Flood Mitigation Master Plan

Mayor Brian Lim formed a 10-member Flood Mitigation Commission tasked

with crafting short-, medium-, and long-term solutions to address the city's

perennial floods. A flood mapping survey conducted by the University of

the Philippines in 2017 showed that three-fourths of the city's 48-square-

kilometer land area experienced flood levels of at least 40 centimeters,

with other areas twice to thrice as much. The commission is coordinating

with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and other

government agencies to come up with proposals for short- and long-term

solutions to flooding.

2.2.3 Climate Vulnerability and Flood Risks in Dagupan

Dagupan City faces significant climate and geological risks, particularly

related to flooding. The CORVI (Climate and Ocean Risk Vulnerability

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Index) assessment identified high vulnerability scores in climate and

water-related factors, highlighting the city's susceptibility to flooding from

tropical storms and prevailing water security issues. These risks are

considered inherent to the city given its climate and geological

environment, which also predispose it to impacts from other high-risk

categories.

2.2.4 Flood Mitigation Initiatives and Community Engagement

In response to recurring flooding, Dagupan City has reconstituted its Flood

Mitigation Commission to oversee and implement various flood mitigation

programs. Stakeholders, including architects and engineers, have

expressed strong support for anti-flooding measures under the

administration of Mayor Belen Fernandez. These efforts aim to reduce

flooding risks and enhance public safety through collaborative planning

and execution.

2.2.5 River Restoration and Dredging Projects

The local government is looking into continuous dredging and investing in

infrastructures to address perennial flooding in the city. Mayor Belen

Fernandez mentioned that these measures were brought up during a

dialogue between officials from the city and national government and

residents of the coastal villages involved in the implementation of the

proposed River Restoration Project. These efforts aim to alleviate flooding

and improve water quality in the affected areas

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CHAPTER III

METHODOLOGY

This study employs a descriptive-qualitative research design

complemented by quantitative data analysis to evaluate the social,

economic, and environmental benefits of implementing Sustainable

Stormwater Runoff Management (SSRM) in Dagupan City. The

research focuses on selected barangays prone to flooding and with

existing SSRM initiatives, including green infrastructure, permeable

pavements, and detention ponds. Data are collected through

structured questionnaires administered to residents and business

owners, key informant interviews with local government officials

and environmental experts, on-site observations of SSRM

infrastructure, and document analysis of city reports and flood

mitigation plans. The study uses purposive sampling to ensure

participants have relevant knowledge or experience with SSRM

projects. Quantitative data are analyzed using descriptive statistics,

while qualitative data are examined thematically. Triangulation of

multiple data sources is applied to ensure the validity and reliability

of the findings.

3.1 Research Design

This study will use a descriptive-qualitative research design. It aims to

describe and evaluate the social, economic, and environmental benefits of

sustainable stormwater runoff management (SSRM) in Dagupan City. The

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research will involve collecting information from residents, local officials,

and experts, and combining both numbers (quantitative data) and

opinions/observations (qualitative data) to get a full understanding of the

impact of SSRM.

3.2 Sources of Data

The research will be conducted in Dagupan City, Pangasinan, a city prone

to flooding due to its low elevation and proximity to rivers and the coast.

The study will focus on barangays and areas where SSRM practices like

green infrastructure, permeable pavements, and detention ponds have

been applied.

3.3 Instrumentation and Data Collection

To gather data, the study will use:

Questionnaire – For residents, to find out their views on social, economic,

and environmental benefits. Questions will mostly use Likert scale ratings

(e.g., strongly agree to strongly disagree).

Interview Guide – For local officials and experts, to get more detailed

information about SSRM implementation, challenges, and outcomes.

Observation Checklist – To record existing SSRM structures like green

areas, permeable pavements, and detention ponds, and assess their

impact on flooding and the environment.

Secondary Data Review – Analysis of city reports, government

statistics, and previous studies about stormwater management in

Dagupan.

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Data Collection Procedure

Permission and Coordination: Obtain approval from the city and

barangay officials to conduct surveys and interviews.

Questionnaire Distribution: Surveys will be handed out to selected

residents either personally or through online forms.

Conducting Interviews: Interview officials and experts for qualitative

insights.

Observation: Visit the selected SSRM sites to check the infrastructure

and environmental improvements.

Secondary Data Collection: Gather relevant data from reports, previous

studies, and official statistics

3.4 Tools for Data Analysis

Quantitative Data: Survey responses will be analyzed using simple

descriptive statistics like mean, frequency, and percentage. This will show

how residents perceive the benefits of SSRM.

Qualitative Data: Interviews and observations will be reviewed for

themes and patterns, showing how SSRM affects social, economic, and

environmental aspects.

Triangulation: Both types of data will be compared to provide a complete

evaluation of SSRM’s benefits.

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