BALANGA CITY (PIA) -- Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) completed a P9.90-million diversion dam along the Capitangan River in Abucay, Bataan.

The structure was designed and built in four parts: a 16-linear meter dam, a 232-linear meter lined canal, 20-linear meter slope protection, and the placement of 336 cubic meters of gabions.

DPWH Bataan 1st District Engineer Erlindo Flores Jr. explained that not only will the project enhance barangay Capitangan’s irrigation system but a strategic addition to the structure is a slope protection that supports the diversion dam.

“The completed structure also serves as a flood gate against the destructive power of floods by controlling the flow of water during heavy rains, with the gabions placed strategically to effectively manage stormwater runoff by slowing down and temporarily storing excess rainfall,” he furthered.

The diversion dam plays a crucial role in managing the adverse impacts of river runoff and helps in capturing excess water, not only aiding in controlling potential flooding but also supporting water storage efforts.

Flores likewise highlighted the multifunctional role of the structure in reducing riverbank erosion, retaining runoff, and promoting groundwater infiltration that extends its benefits beyond immediate gains, particularly emphasizing support for irrigation.

The project was funded under the 2023 national budget. (MJSC/CLJD-PIA 3)