Burst Pipes Blamed for Ungka Flyover Delays

By Joseph Bernard A. Marzan

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Western Visayas has attributed delays in rectification works on the controversial Ungka Flyover to burst water pipes from Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW).

The flyover, which connects Iloilo City and Pavia, Iloilo, has faced scrutiny since its full opening in September 2022.

In a letter dated Dec. 27, 2024, DPWH-Western Visayas Assistant Regional Director Jose Al Fruto urged MPIW to address the water leakages immediately to avoid further project setbacks.

“Recent observations of water leakage in the area, attributed to burst pipes, have caused delays in our completion schedule,” Fruto wrote.

“I strongly urge your company to hasten the necessary work to resolve these issues. Ensuring public safety and convenience remains our top priority, and timely completion of this project is critical.”

Fruto noted that prior to the start of jet grouting activities at the flyover, DPWH had held multiple meetings with MPIW, stressing the urgency of bypassing old, deteriorated pipes and connecting them to the existing water line to prevent delays.

Mayor Demands, Again

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas, who chairs the Regional Development Council’s Infrastructure Development Committee, has also called on MPIW to act swiftly.

In an undated letter posted on his Facebook page, Treñas demanded a commitment and timeline from MPIW to resolve the water leakage issue within five days.

“[P]lease provide the Committee, through this Office, commitment from the Metro Pacific Iloilo Water and a timeline of completion of the necessary engineering works to resolve the continuing water leakages in the said area,” the mayor stated.

As of this writing, MPIW has yet to formally receive the mayor’s letter but has assured the media that it will issue a response soon.

Flyover Turnover Looms Amid Controversy

The Ungka Flyover has been a source of contention since its opening, plagued by reports of structural issues and delays.

The flyover is now scheduled for turnover, along with its access roads, on Jan. 22, 2025.

DPWH reiterated its commitment to completing the rectification works but emphasized that timely cooperation from MPIW is essential to avoid further disruptions.

The Ungka Flyover is considered a critical infrastructure project aimed at improving traffic flow between Iloilo City and Pavia.

However, ongoing delays and controversies have raised concerns about its long-term reliability and public safety.