TACLOBAN CITY– The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Leyte Second District Engineering Office has finished the construction of a flood control structure along a portion of the Ibawon River Basin in Barangay Burabod, MacArthur, Leyte.

Another five flood control structure projects stretching the Binahaan River Basin, located in the barangays of Balilit (upstream and downstream), Cansamada, Digahungan, and Abre in Dagami town are also currently implemented, according to District Engineer Leo Edward Oppura.

“This project will lessen the consequences of flooding in the villages and neighboring municipalities brought on by torrential rains that led the water to rise quickly,” he said.

“Aside from mitigating measures to prevent disasters, it will also protect the Ibawon Bridge from possible damage when the ravaging water passes through the bridge,” Oppura added.
The completion of the flood control project in MacArthur will ensure protection against possible flooding of about 337 individuals in Burabod and its nearby communities.

The project’s funding was sourced from the General Appropriations Act (GAA) of 2022, with a total cost of P235.05 million.

“Flood control structures, such as gabion barriers, are necessary for communities near the Binahaan River to reduce erosion and scouring on river banks during floods and high-velocity river streams, as well as to avoid further damage to water-logged areas,” Oppura said.

“River banks will not be compromised during sudden occurrence of rains and tropical storms, thereby protecting the lives and property of those living nearby,” he added.
The Dagami flood control project is set to be completed in the first quarter of next year.
(RONALD O. REYES)