Lingayen: The PHP23-million floodgate project in Sitio Aplaya, Barangay Pangapisan North is already mitigating flooding for approximately 1,400 families, despite only being 60 percent complete. The initiative has brought relief to the community, addressing a flooding issue that has persisted for nearly 24 years.

According to Philippines News Agency, Pangapisan North barangay captain Jojo Viray expressed the community's satisfaction, noting that flooding caused by high tide and the rainy season had become a perennial problem, earning the area the nickname "water world." The project, funded under the 2024 national budget, commenced in February last year and features a floodgate to block water from the Lingayen Gulf during high tide and machine-operated pumps to remove accumulated water during the rainy season or storm surges.

Pangasinan 2nd District Rep. Mark Cojuangco indicated that the project is expected to be completed by March or April of this year. He emphasized the availability of a second pump to handle extra heavy rains, explaining that the pumps will only operate when high tide and heavy rain coincide. The floodgate remains open during low tide to allow water to flow out and is closed before high tide to prevent flooding.

Cojuangco mentioned that the project is part of a larger program aimed at constructing floodgates and sea walls along the Lingayen Gulf, with a total allocation of PHP139 million. While the project has been welcomed by many, it has faced opposition from some residents concerned about its impact on their ability to safely dock boats, a key part of their livelihood.

Plans are underway to construct additional floodgate projects in Villa Maniboc, Alvear Street, PNP Road in Libsong East, Libsong West in Lingayen, and Buenlag in Binmaley.