Public Works and Highways Secretary Mark Villar announced the completion of a P55-million flood-control structure to protect residents from the overflowing of Barotac Viejo River in Barangay Poblacion Ilawod in Barotac Viejo, Iloilo.
Citing a report from DPWH Iloilo 3rd District Engineer Flordelis C. Enriquez, Secretary Villar said the project covers the construction of a 450-linear meter river wall with slope protection, drainage and dike trail.
“The completion of this flood control project will protect those living within the flood-prone barangays of Poblacion and Natividad,” Secretary Villar said.
“Additionally, the trail in the dike gives a recreational venue for the community, which can be used for biking, jogging and walking towards the shoreline of Visayan Sea,” added Secretary Villar.
DPWH Iloilo 3rd District Engineering Office is also undertaking additional revetment wall along Barotac Viejo River, specifically the extension in the villages of San Lucas, Poblacion and Natividad in the same municipality.
For 2019, DPWH has allocated a total of P136 million to extend the project to other parts of Barangay Natividad, Poblacion, and Ilawod.