The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Romblon District Engineering Office (DEO) has successfully completed the Pag-alad to Jun Carlo Flood Control Structure, a vital project aimed at regulating strong water currents and preventing soil erosion along the riverbanks and adjacent rice fields, especially during typhoon season.
The newly constructed 226.80-linear-meter flood control structure is part of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to enhancing flood mitigation infrastructure across the country. According to Romblon District Engineer Elena M. Castilan, the project includes sheet piles for bank and slope protection, rubble concrete, and concrete slope reinforcements to ensure the structure’s durability.
For local farmers like Orly T. Bangalisan, the completion of the project marks a significant improvement in their livelihood and safety. He recalls the struggles they faced during typhoons, when rising waters would destroy their crops and flood their homes.
“Nakakabuti po sa aming komunidad itong bagong flood control dahil napipigilan nito ang pag-apaw ng tubig sa aming mga bahayan. Hindi gaya noon, kawawa kami dito dahil yung tubig umaapaw sa mga aplaya, sa mga pananim. Sa ngayon po, malaking pagpapahalaga namin sa project na ito at nagpapasalamat po kami sa DPWH na nagtaguyod upang mapagawa ang flood control na ito,” Bangalisan shared.
With the new flood control structure, the river’s water levels are better regulated, significantly reducing the risk of overflow. This provides increased protection for local rice fields, helping farmers maintain more stable crop yields and preventing the loss of agricultural land.
In her report to DPWH MIMAROPA Regional Director Gerald A. Pacanan, CESO III, Castilan emphasized that the project will play a crucial role in safeguarding lives, properties, and agricultural resources in San Andres, Romblon.
