In Northern Samar
TACLOBAN CITY-The Integrated Flood Management Project in Northern Samar, prioritizing the flood-prone town of Catubig, is nearing implementation as planning and assessments continue, according to Jan Allen Berbon, head of the Provincial Economic Development and Investment Promotions Office (PEDIPO).
While the project is set to cover the entire province, Catubig has been given priority due to its high flood risk and importance as a major rice-producing hub.
“Catubig is a key area for Northern Samar, not only because of its high flood vulnerability from the Catubig River, the largest in the province, but also due to its vital role as our primary rice granary,” Berbon said.
During Severe Tropical Storm ‘Kristine’ last month, floodwaters in Catubig reached up to 4.35 meters, particularly affecting the town center, as reported by the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Office.
The town has approximately 4,250 hectares of rice fields, yielding an annual production of 13,306 metric tons.
In March 2024, Governor Edwin Ongchuan signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea’s Kyong-Ho Engineering and KCleng Co. Ltd.
This led to the pre-master plan study, conducted on October 28, led by Vice Governor Clarence Dato along with representatives from the engineering firm.
The study included assessments of current flood infrastructure, river flow patterns, and high-tide impacts to determine effective flood management strategies.
Berbon mentioned that funding details are yet to be addressed. However, the provincial government plans to seek national funding support once the study is finalized.
The project aims to reduce flood levels in Catubig by an initial target of 0.45 meters and includes proposals for constructing a sluice gate at the Catubig River Estuary and a multipurpose dam to aid in flood control, water storage, and electricity generation.
“This initiative aligns with Governor Ongchuan’s vision to build a safer, more resilient future for Northern Samar communities, particularly in critical agricultural areas like Catubig,” Berbon noted.
The project’s ultimate goal is to enhance flood resilience for Northern Samar’s agricultural regions, reducing the severe economic and social impacts of recurrent flooding.
(JOEY A. GABIETA with report ROEL T. AMAZONA)
