Flood control structure protects residents along Sipalay River in Negros Occidental

With the construction of the new revetment wall along the Sipalay River in Negros lives, properties, and livelihood of the people along the river are protected from possible flood damage.

The ₱54.75-million project undertaken by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Negros Occidental 3rd District Engineering Office involves the construction of a 420-lineal meter revetment wall with a hand-laid rock embankment resting on steel sheet pile foundations capped with structural concrete.

Citing a report from District Engineer Rodney A. Gustilo, DPWH-6 Regional Director Nerie D. Bueno said the disaster-resilient project will address the problem of soil erosion and recurring floods in Poblacion areas, specifically in Barangay Gil Montilla, Barangay Nauhang, and Barangay Mamboroto.

“The revetment wall will prevent possible overflowing of water that may damage and destroy crops and farmlands in Sipalay City,” Director Bueno said.

“With this project, flooding and soil erosion will be mitigated, and communities will have the opportunity to improve and invest in their properties, as well as adopt various strategies to enhance their livelihood,” added RD Bueno.

Meantime, local residents expressed their gratitude for the provision of a flood control project that will safeguard their lives and properties.

“With the construction of this structure, we feel safer during heavy rains and typhoons. We would like to thank DPWH for completing this structure as we will no longer have to worry about our homes and properties being washed away by floods as well as our crops being damaged by the water,” said Maribel V. Gonzales, a resident from Sipalay City. (DPWH-6)