DAVAO CITY – More than a year after flood destroyed a section of the Matina Gravahan dike here, no repair has been carried out as government funding remains on hold, and a dispute between the contractor and a private landowner has stalled reconstruction.

The dike, completed in February 2023, initially gave residents long-sought relief from recurring floods that plagued the community for decades.

But in February 2024, just a year after its turnover, a massive log swept downstream by strong currents struck the structure, ripping part of its concrete wall open. Since then, residents said even moderate rains have placed homes at risk.

“Floods returned after that section gave way. Large logs came down this side, and the dike could not withstand the pressure,” recalled resident Roberto Pandi.

Another resident, Paolo Bilocura, expressed frustration that the structure collapsed months after completion.

The Department of Public Works and Highways-Davao City District Office requested emergency funding to restore the damaged portion. However, as of September 2025, no approval has been issued.

The delay drew flak from locals who warned that the community faces another storm season without adequate protection.

Adding to the setback is a nearby landowner who refused access for repairs and demanded more than P3 million in compensation from the contractor for property allegedly used during construction.

The owner has filed a case before the Office of the Ombudsman accusing DPWH of neglecting to resolve the payment dispute and the stalled repair works.

A property caretaker said the landowner lost patience after unfulfilled assurances from the contractor. “They promised to pay for the damage, but nothing came of it. That’s why access for repairs is now being denied,” the caretaker said.

DPWH-11 spokesperson Dean Ortiz confirmed the conflict and said the agency would mediate between the contractor and the landowner to break the impasse.

“We will intervene and negotiate with both parties on how to expedite the repair of the damaged dike,” Ortiz said, stressing that resolving the issue is critical to restoring flood protection.

Residents remain disheartened. “For a year, we lived without fear of flooding. Now, we are back to the same worries as before,” a resident said.

The DPWH was urged to hold the contractor accountable for a structure that failed within a year of completion and push for the immediate release of funds before the next typhoon season intensifies risks.