TACLOBAN CITY — To improve road safety and ensure uninterrupted connectivity between upland and lowland communities in Leyte, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)–Leyte 2nd District Engineering Office (L2DEO) has completed the slope protection component of the Network Development Program along the Burauen–Albuera Road in Burauen town.
District Engineer Leo Edward Oppura said the project addresses long-standing issues of soil erosion, landslides, and unsafe road conditions, particularly during the rainy season, along this vital inter-municipal route.
The project was implemented in two locations. Site 1, located in Barangay Matin-ao, involved 459 square meters of slope protection works, while Site 2 in Barangay Dinaayan covered 341 square meters. Both sites are within the municipality of Burauen.
To stabilize the road slopes, the project utilized Mechanically Stabilized Earth (MSE) walls, designed to reinforce embankments and prevent erosion. These were complemented by a 47-meter lined canal that provides an efficient drainage system, directing rainwater away from the roadway and reducing the risk of slope failure.
DPWH–L2DEO said the completed structures now ensure safer passage for motorists and pedestrians, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall, while helping maintain the smooth flow of traffic along the Burauen–Albuera corridor.
With the project’s completion, residents are expected to benefit from improved access to markets, schools, health facilities, and other essential services. The road also plays a key role in supporting the transport of agricultural products between Burauen and Albuera.
A resident of Barangay Dinaayan expressed gratitude for the project, saying, “Many thanks to the DPWH for giving us this project here in Barangay Matin-ao. What they provided is truly good because it is a big help for this riprap.”
He added that the project significantly improved safety in the area. “This road used to be very dangerous before the gabion project was implemented. At night, the road was dark and badly damaged due to erosion caused by continuous rainfall, making it deep and extremely hazardous. The railings were also unstable and could collapse. Now, the road has been widened and reinforced. It is much safer for those passing through, especially residents from far-flung areas and farmers who travel at night. This area was really dangerous before the project,” he said.
The slope protection project was funded with P45,465,573.50 under the 2025 General Appropriations Act (GAA). Construction was undertaken by R.T. Morabe Construction and completed on December 14, 2025.
(LIZBETH ANN A.ABELLA)
