By Dean Aubrey Caratiquet
The onset of the rainy season has come as the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) announced its arrival on June 3.
Such a shift marks a departure from the scorching summer heat that has engulfed the nation over the past few months, thus underscoring the need for interventions to address floods and landslides, especially in communities situated near bodies of water and foothills of mountains, respectively.
In accordance with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s “Build Better More” infrastructure program and his call towards mitigating the effects of climate change, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed a vital flood control project along the Padsan River in the towns of Sarrat and Piddig in Ilocos Norte.
DPWH Region 1 Director Ronnel Tan stated in his report to Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan that the newly completed 452.64-meter river wall protection was constructed in Barangay 6, Tonoton, Piddig and Sitio Cabuloan, Barangay San Marcos, Sarrat — both are flood-prone areas often experiencing damages from the overflowing river especially during heavy rains.
“The construction of the river wall will serve as a long-term solution to protect lives, properties, and livelihoods from the devastating effects of flooding especially as we prepare for the rainy season,” said Director Tan.
The P77.19 million structure is designed to improve waterway capacity and enhance the flood resilience of surrounding communities.
This project is among the DPWH’s roster of flood control projects along the Padsan River, with four others that are slated for completion this year.
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