VIGAN CITY, Ilocos Sur (PIA) —The newly-completed P36.4-million flood-control project by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Barangay Dean Leopoldo Yabes (DLY), Sinait, Ilocos Sur is designed to mitigate extreme weather impacts and protect vital farmlands and properties in the area.
The recently completed 350.35-linear-meter concrete revetment wall, funded through the FY 2024 DPWH Infrastructure Program, now stands as a barrier against flooding, minimizes erosion risk along riverbanks, and protects nearby properties from further damage.
In a press release, DPWH Regional Information Officer Esperanza Tinaza emphasized the project’s significance, strengthening the adjacent barangay’s resilience to storms and rising river waters and ensuring the community’s safety.
“The concrete revetment wall was designed to reinforce the riverbank, preventing scouring and sediment displacement that could weaken the surrounding land,” she said.
District Engineer Raynaldo Ablog of the DPWH Ilocos Sur First District Engineering Office highlighted the importance of the project on Feb. 27, noting that it is situated along the Sinait River, which carries water from the mountains to the sea near Barangay DLY.
He said the project was divided into two phases: the first phase was completed in December 2023, with a P45 million budget, while the second phase was completed in October 2024.
“During our assessment, we observed scouring near farmlands and private properties. Since its completion, we have seen how the project has helped prevent total erosion in the area and safeguard nearby lands,” Ablog said.
DLY Punong Barangay Irwin Ancheta said they had long awaited the project due to frequent soil erosion during high river levels, which threatened their farmlands, and expressed gratitude for this much-needed infrastructure.
“This project helps prevent soil erosion. In the past, heavy rainfall has caused the creek to widen, which poses a serious threat to our farmlands. That’s why we are extremely grateful for this project,” Ancheta said.
This and other infrastructure projects aimed at empowering rural communities demonstrate the commitment of the DPWH to ensure the safety and stability of these areas.
The DPWH assured the public that it will continue to allocate funds for future infrastructure projects, particularly flood control initiatives that extend along the sea, to protect not only residents of Barangay DLY but also those in nearby coastal barangays.
By constructing robust infrastructure, the government strengthens disaster resilience and empowers communities to thrive. (CCMT/JMCQ, PIA Ilocos Sur)
