By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s mandate of improving the country’s disaster preparation and mitigation efforts, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) continues to erect critical infrastructure that protects communities across the archipelago from the devastation brought about by floods during the rainy season.
Such was the case with coastal communities in the towns of Pilar and Panay in Capiz whose residents are bound to reap the benefits of newly-completed river control structures in their locales.
According to DPWH Region 6 Director Sanny Boy Oropel, the completed projects are a 751.5-lineal meter flood mitigation structure along Balisong River in Barangay San Ramon, Pilar, and a 223.3-lineal meter river control structure along Panay River in Barangay Cogon, Panay.
“These major rivers have been prone to overflow especially during inclement weather which has affected residents along surrounding areas. Hence, the structures are designed to handle excessive water flow and normalize water levels, ensuring that communities and their livelihoods remain protected,” said Director Oropel.
The fortification of these riverbanks are intended to keep erosion at bay and prevent local roads from being inundated with floods during heavy rains, ensuring unhampered accessibility and movement of goods.
Likewise, these riverfronts also serve as scenic and accessible spaces for locals and tourists to enjoy leisure activities like sightseeing and sunset viewing.
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