The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has implemented structural measures to keep riverside communities in various towns of Central Iloilo safe and protected against flooding during heavy rains.
DPWH Regional Office 6 Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel identified the completed projects along Tigum River in Cabatuan, Jalaur River in Dumangas, and Suage River in Janiuay.
Concrete revetment walls with box culverts and steel sheet piles were constructed in Barangay Amerang, Cabatuan with a length of 212-lineal meters; in Barangay Balabag, Dumangas with a length of 114-lineal meters; and in Barangay Calmay, Janiuay with a length of 155-lineal meters.
“Residents in these areas can have peace of mind knowing that these are flood control structures to protect them by providing better waterflow management and serving as a line of defense against the detrimental effects of flooding,” said Director Oropel.
The river control projects were implemented in the amount of P30 million, P19.5 million, and P19.6 million, respectively.
Meanwhile, DPWH Iloilo 2nd District Engineering Office is also undertaking the on-going construction of a 147-lineal meter flood control structure along Ulian River in the town of Dueñas.
The P24.5-million project is expected to minimize the impact of heavy rains and control run-off velocity on nearby roads, benefitting local communities in Barangay Alibunan.
“By implementing flood control measures, vulnerability and exposure of communities to disasters will be reduced, offering a sustainable solution that will build adaptability and resilience amidst changing climate conditions,” added Director Oropel.