Contractor Error Causes Ungka Flyover Hole

By Mariela Angella Oladive

A pipeline accident caused by the contractor of the controversial Ungka flyover has led to a backfilling operation to stabilize a hole beneath the structure, sparking fresh concerns about ongoing infrastructure challenges.

On October 18, a 600mm transmission pipe owned by Metro Pacific Iloilo Water (MPIW) was damaged by International Builders Corporation (IBC), the same contractor responsible for the Ungka flyover, which has faced structural issues since its opening.

Following MPIW’s emergency leak repair, IBC backfilled the excavated area, but continuous rains eroded the backfill material, causing the hole’s reappearance.

MPIW clarified that “per our last information from DPWH, there is no evidence of movement on the Ungka flyover segment where MPIW’s leak repair activity was conducted” to that the incident does not indicate additional instability in the structure itself.

To expedite the repairs, MPIW has coordinated with IBC and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to refill the area.

“MPIW has coordinated with DPWH to ensure fast and efficient implementation of the backfilling activity,” MPIW said.

DPWH-6 Regional Director Engineer Sanny Boy Oropel reassured the public that the incident does not compromise the flyover’s stability or pose risks to pedestrians and vehicles.

“There is no risk to vehicles or pedestrians near the flyover,” he explained, clarifying that the hole’s emergence is unrelated to the structural integrity of the flyover.

Oropel confirmed that intensive jet grouting had already been completed at the base of the flyover’s first column, and subsequent tests showed the ground to be stable, with no signs of further movement.

He also toldjhe he toldtol MPIW to complete the backfilling as soon as possible.

Concerns about the Ungka flyover’s structural integrity have spread on social media, following posts by residents and commuters.

Netizen Markie Mac Decals Gayoma shared photos credited to Daniel Grecia, with the caption, “Ungka Flyover today. Te malabay ka pa da (Will you still pass there)?”

The post has been shared more than 1,000 times, with one commenter calling the situation “kurulbaan” (alarming), while another remarked, “Nauna pa ang guba kaysa kay-o” (The damage appeared before it was even opened).

In September, DPWH-6 Regional Director Engineer Sanny Boy Oropel announced plans to fully open the Ungka Flyover by December 25, presenting it as a “Christmas gift” to the public.

Phase 2 of the flyover repairs will include intensive jet grouting of the remaining piers, removal of the existing surface, and the application of a Geofoam System to adjust the flyover’s vertical design profile.

Additionally, the Department of Public Works and Highways Region 6 (DPWH-6) will install metal railings, add cladding, and repair damaged pavement beneath the structure.

The contract for the second phase of repairs was also awarded to IBC, which also handled the initial flyover construction.

IBC has faced public criticism for its work on the flyover, as delays and concerns about sinking issues have intensified public scrutiny of both the firm’s performance and DPWH’s oversight.