Slope protection structures in northern Iloilo built to safeguard motorists and residents

The safety of motorists traveling to northern Iloilo is ensured with the construction high tensile wire slope protection structures along Iloilo East Coast Capiz, specifically in Brgy. Santiago in Barotac Viejo, undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Iloilo 3^rd District Engineering Office.

In his report to DPWH-6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno, District Engineer Ricardo R. Gutierrez said the ₱49.2-million structure funded under the District’s General Appropriations Act (GAA) 2021 involves the construction of 19.3-lineal meter active slope protection structure.

It also includes construction of lined canal to provide smooth passage of water and prevent it to overflow along the national road.

Regional Director Bueno said the structure aims to protect the national road from rock fall and landslide that may hamper the flow of traffic, especially when heavy rains occur.

“We will make sure that our national roads are free from falling debris and erosion to provide smooth and continuous traffic flow, as well as providing safety among our motorists and the riding public, especially these days that we are experiencing or expecting series of rainfalls and typhoons,” Bueno added.

Ariel Batancadolo, a resident of Brgy. Santiago said the road, built at the side of the mountain is prone to landslide and rock fall when heavy rains occur.

“When it rains, the soil is eroded, covering the road, the 4-lane become 3-lane only since one lane is covered with mud and rocks when landslide occurs,” Batancadolo said.

The completed slope protection structure provided great significance especially during the onslaught of typhoon Agaton in April this year.

Several road sections were affected by landslide but the portion with slope protection structure was passable to all types of vehicles.

Meantime, Director Bueno said two other structures with the collective amount of ₱74.6 million are currently being implemented by DPWH in the town – one along Barotac Viejo-San Rafael Road, while the other one is along Iloilo East Coast Capiz Road, both are expected to be completed in September this year.

“When completed, these structures will not only provide smooth traffic flow, but also safeguard lives, properties and livelihood of the people living in the area,” Director Bueno said. (DPWH-6)