Residents of Barangay Nabanghi need not worry at times of calamity as a flood control structure along the portion of Sibalom River in the town of Leon in Iloilo has been completed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
DPWH Secretary Roger G. Mercado said the P75.26 million river wall project has been completed last month and was successfully implemented by the DPWH Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office (DEO).
Mercado said that the construction would ensure the safety of people residing in the area.
“Approximately 2,500 residents are expected to be protected by this structure. Not only that the lives of locals will be put out of danger in times of calamities, their properties and livelihood that depend on harvesting agricultural products will also be secured," said Mercado.
DPWH Regional Office 6 Director Tiburcio DL. Canlas and OIC-District Engineer Mario G. Soriano said that the newly-constructed structure is built to complement the existing wall at the other side of the river.
With a length of 755 lineal meters and a height of 4.2 meters, the reinforced concrete revetment wall serves as a defense against flash floods and erosion of the river’s upper bank.
Mercado also pointed out the importance of the flood control structure in preventing the nearby national road from possible cut-off due to rising river water during heavy rains.
He also said that with the flood control structure the road remains open for motorists as well as the riding public at all times, which allows for a smooth transportation in the area.