MANILA — Upland communities in the towns of Leon and Alimodian will be safely accessed with the continuous provision of slope protection structures by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
Recently, DPWH Iloilo 4th District Engineering Office has built another slope protection structure along Junction Bancal-Leon-Antique Boundary Road, specifically in Barangay Ayabang, San Miguel town.
DPWH 6 Regional Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel said the structure will ensure that the road and nearby communities are spared from possible hazards caused by landslide and falling debris.
“This portion of the national road is very susceptible to landslide and rock fall especially when heavy rains occur, posing danger to commuters and residents, hence, this improvement is significant in order to preserve the life and properties of the people living in the area,” RD Oropel noted.
This slope protection structure will further ensure that the road is accessible at all times, providing uninterrupted transportation, as well as cost-efficient delivery of agricultural products from the highlands to the market.
RD Oropel further said this slope protection will also help facilitate faster delivery of medical and other basic services to the people in the far-flung areas.
In addition, District Engineer Mario G. Soriano said the slope protection will provide a convenient access to various tourist destinations in the area, enhancing local tourism development.
This road section provides access to Bucari Pine Forest in Brgy. Bucari, Leon which is considered as the “Little Baguio” of Iloilo province and to other tourist destinations in Alimodian town like the “Imoy Falls” and “Seven Cities” which are known for organic vegetable production, thus, ensuring the road connectivity is necessary,” DE Soriano explained.
“We should ensure that our national roads especially those in the highland areas are free from falling debris and erosion to provide smooth and continuous flow of traffic, especially these days that we are experiencing series of rainfall,” added Soriano.
The P96.496-million project funded under FY 2023 Regular Infrastructure Program, involves construction of slope protection structure and drainage system, including the construction of bridge and other miscellaneous structures. (DPWH with photos by DPWH Iloilo 4th DEO)
