DPWH completes P28.9-M flood control structure in La Union

DPWH completes P28.9-M flood control structure in La Union

A New shield Against Floods: La Union’s Namaltugan Embraces resilience

DPWH completes P28.9-M flood control structure in La Union

A newly constructed flood control structure stands tall in barangay Namaltugan, Sudipen, La Union, offering vital protection to nearby communities.

A wave of relief has washed over residents of Barangay Namaltugan, sudipen, La Union, with the completion of a vital flood control structure. This extraordinary 254-linear meter dike, finished on December 14, 2024, stands as a testament to the goverment’s commitment to safeguarding communities from the relentless threat of flooding.

“The scope of work involved installing six-meter-long steel sheet piles, constructing a capping beam, embankment works, and slope protection,” explained Esperanza Tinaza, data Officer for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Ilocos region. “This dike strengthens the riverbank, preventing erosion and ensuring the surrounding area remains stable and secure.

Funded by PHP28.9 million allocated from the previous year’s national budget, the project commenced construction on April 30, 2024. Its primary objective is to protect the communities of Namaltugan, Old Central, Ilcano, and Ipet from the ever-present danger posed by rising waters from the Amburayan River.

“Investing in flood mitigation infrastructure empowers local residents to better prepare for and adapt to future natural disasters,” emphasized Tinaza. This proactive approach underscores the DPWH’s dedication to fostering resilient communities throughout La Union.

Beyond the physical structure, community preparedness efforts are crucial in mitigating flood risks. These initiatives frequently enough include:

  • Early Warning Systems: Establishing robust systems to alert residents of impending floods, allowing for timely evacuations.
  • Community Drills: Conducting regular drills to familiarize residents with evacuation procedures and emergency response protocols.
  • Floodplain Management: Implementing zoning regulations and land-use planning strategies to minimize development in flood-prone areas.
  • Public Education: Raising awareness about flood risks, preparedness measures, and the importance of individual responsibility.

Through a combination of infrastructure investments and proactive community engagement, La Union is taking notable strides toward becoming a more resilient region, prepared to whether the challenges posed by climate change and natural disasters.

A Sturdy Shield: New Flood control Structure Safeguards La Union Communities

The residents of Namaltugan, Old Central, Ilcano, and Ipet in La Union can breathe a sigh of relief. A brand-new flood control structure, completed in December 2024, stands ready to protect their homes and communities from the powerful Amburayan River.

“The scope of work was extensive,” explains Esperanza Tinaza, detailing the project’s construction. “It included installing six-meter-long steel sheet piles, constructing a capping beam, and undertaking considerable embankment works and slope protection.” This meticulous combination of elements creates a formidable barrier against the river’s flow during heavy rainfall.

This crucial infrastructure project, costing PHP28.9 million, was funded through the previous year’s national budget. Construction began on April 30, 2024, demonstrating a swift and determined effort to deliver this vital protection.

But this flood control structure goes beyond immediate protection. It’s a strategic investment in long-term disaster risk reduction. “By investing in flood mitigation infrastructure,we are empowering local communities to better prepare for and adapt to the impacts of future natural disasters,” emphasizes tinaza. This commitment to resilience is a testament to the DPWH’s dedication to safeguarding the well-being of La Union’s residents.

Tinaza extends a message of reassurance and preparedness to all residents: “This flood control structure is a symbol of our commitment to ensuring the safety and security of our communities. We urge residents to remain vigilant about flood risks, follow safety guidelines during severe weather events, and actively participate in community preparedness efforts. Together, we can build more resilient communities and face future challenges head-on.”

How will the community’s engagement and preparedness be fostered and measured as part of the La Union flood control project?

A Sturdy Shield: An Interview wiht Esperanza Tinaza on La Union’s Flood Control Project

Flooding remains a meaningful concern for many coastal communities, particularly in the face of climate change. Here at Archyde, we spoke with Esperanza Tinaza, Data Officer for the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the Ilocos region, to learn more about a recent flood control project completed in Barangay Namaltugan, Sudipen, La Union.

A Vital Protection for La Union Communities

Archyde: Esperanza, can you tell us about the newly constructed flood control structure in Namaltugan?

Esperanza Tinaza: Certainly. This 254-linear meter dike was completed in December 2024. It was built to protect the communities of Namaltugan, Old central, Ilcano, and Ipet from the risks posed by the Amburayan River, which can swell significantly during heavy rainfall.

Archyde: What was involved in building this structure, and what makes it so effective?

Tinaza: The project involved a comprehensive range of works, including installing 6-meter-long steel sheet piles, constructing a capping beam, embankment works, and slope protection. These combined measures create a robust barrier, effectively strengthening the riverbank, preventing erosion, and ensuring stability in the surrounding area.

Archyde: Flooding can be devastating. Can you elaborate on the importance of investing in infrastructure projects like this one?

Tinaza: Absolutely. Investing in flood mitigation infrastructure like this dike isn’t just about immediate protection; it’s about creating long-term resilience. We empower communities to better prepare for and adapt to the impacts of future natural disasters. This commitment reflects the DPWH’s dedication to safeguarding the well-being of all residents in la Union.

Archyde: Beyond the physical structure, what role does community preparedness play in mitigating flood risks? What initiatives are crucial?

Tinaza: Community engagement is absolutely essential. Early warning systems, regular community drills to practice evacuation procedures, floodplain management through zoning regulations, and ongoing public education are all vital. Everyone needs to understand the risks and know what steps to take during emergencies.

Archyde: Looking ahead, what message do you want residents to take away from this flood control project?

Tinaza: This flood control structure symbolizes our commitment to their safety and security. while it provides significant protection, it’s equally important for residents to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines during severe weather, and actively participate in community preparedness efforts.Together, we can build more resilient communities, ready to face future challenges head-on.

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