DPWH advances flood control efforts in Central Iloilo

In a strategic move to safeguard communities and the environment in central Iloilo towns, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has intensified the construction of flood control structures along local rivers.

These efforts are aimed at mitigating the perennial flooding issues plaguing various communities.

The DPWH Iloilo 2nd District Engineering Office has recently completed several flood control projects, strengthening the safety and environmental defenses of the affected areas.

OIC-Regional Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel of DPWH 6 has commended these structures as a protective measure against the damaging effects of floods, securing the well-being of the people and their livelihoods, while ensuring the safety of the community and the environment.

Among the newly constructed structures is a 155-lineal meter flood control and slope protection structure along the Suage River in Janiuay, Iloilo, at a cost of ₱19.6 million. This project features a concrete revetment wall that spans 2,300 meters, supplemented with 20-lineal meter box culverts and steel sheet piles.

Additionally, a 212-lineal meter flood control structure has been erected along the Tigum River in Cabatuan, Iloilo. With a budget of ₱30 million, the project includes the construction of a concrete revetment wall with slope protection measures, finalized by steel sheet piles.

Ongoing efforts are evident in the construction of a 147-lineal meter flood control structure along the Ulian River in Dueñas, Iloilo, budgeted at ₱24.5 million. This initiative is poised to minimize the impact of heavy rains, control runoff velocity, and safeguard the lives, properties, and livelihoods of the residents.

“The construction of 155-lineal meter flood control and slope protection structure along Suage River in Janiuay, Iloilo in the amount of ₱19.6 million, which includes a concrete revetment wall spanning 2,300 meters, 20-lineal meter box culverts and steel sheet piles,” OIC-RD Sanny Boy O. Oropel said.

“Flood control projects are vital for the safety and well-being of people and communities. Building these structures can help prevent or reduce the impact of floods. They provide a sense of security to people living in flood-prone areas, giving them peace of mind and allowing them to focus on other aspects of their lives,” OIC-RD Oropel added.

“Flood control projects play a significant role in protecting the environment. These projects can help maintain the delicate balance of the environment by controlling the flow of water and managing floodplains. Protecting the environment is essential for the health and sustainability of our planet, and flood control projects are a crucial part of this effort,” RD Oropel remarked.

Further underlining the importance of these projects, District Engineer Allan Rey R. Pajimna said, “By implementing flood control measures, vulnerability and exposure of communities to disasters will be reduced. This does not only protect lives and property but also saves money in the long run, a sustainable solution that helps build resilience and adaptability in the face of changing climate conditions.”