Iloilo city: The local government is actively engaging with experts to assess if ongoing flood control projects are contributing to the recent flooding incidents affecting the city and nearby barangays in Oton town. In a recent interview, Mayor Raisa Tre±as revealed the collaboration with Central Philippine University and the University of the Philippines to ensure the solutions are scientifically grounded.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative with UP is set to commence this month, aiming for a comprehensive review of the projects to enhance the decision-making process and problem-solving strategies. The study is anticipated to conclude in November. Mayor Tre±as made these remarks during an on-site inspection of the flood mitigation project in Barangay Mohon, Arevalo district, accompanied by Oton Mayor Sofronio Fusin Jr., community officials, and environmental officers.
The project segment along the Iloilo River in Barangay Mohon, which extends 200 to 300 meters, is financed through the General Appropriations Act of 2024 with a budget of PHP90.92 million. St. Gerrard Construction General Contractor and Development Corp. is responsible for its implementation, as indicated by the project's billboard. Additional funding of PHP143.3 million for the same section is being managed by YPR General Contractor and Construction Supply Inc.
Barangay Mohon leader, Rico Francis Acap, noted the project's significant encroachment on the river, which has led to unprecedented flooding during Tropical Depressions Crising and Dante. Oton Mayor Fusin highlighted that seven barangays experienced severe flooding, lasting four days, due to rising water levels in the Iloilo and Batiano Rivers. He expressed concerns over the lack of coordination from the Iloilo City District Engineering Office (ICDEO), as the project is located within Iloilo City.
Community Environment and Natural Resources Officer Armin Halili mentioned the difficulty in precisely determining the extent of river encroachment without a detailed survey. The legal requirement stipulates a three-meter easement from the riverbank, but the outdated cadastral survey poses challenges. Halili suggested acquiring relevant lot titles from the Assessor and Registry of Deeds to facilitate a new survey.
Mayor Tre±as further criticized ICDEO's lack of communication with the city government, not only for this project but also for others in the Lapuz and Jaro districts. She expressed optimism that through better coordination with Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon, Iloilo City's concerns will be addressed.
