Catarman N. Samar-The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH)-Northern Samar First District Engineering Office is currently constructing a flood mitigation structure along the Somoge River in Barangay Somoge, Catarman, Northern Samar.
The P139.90-million project, funded under the 2024 General Appropriations Act, involves the construction of a 308-linear meter flood control structure resting on a steel sheet pile foundation to prevent riverbank erosion. The project also features 309 linear meters of stonemasonry and 274.5 meters of Portland cement concrete pavement.
District Engineer Alvin A. Ignacio emphasized that the project aims to address the community’s severe flooding issues.
“By implementing this project, we are taking a significant step toward mitigating flood risks, protecting lives, and ensuring the safety and well-being of residents in the area,” DE Ignacio said.
Brgy. Kagawad Gemma Dasig Basierto, expressed her appreciation for the project. “Regarding the flood control along the riverside, we are very thankful. In the past, the river was far from the road, but now scouring along the riverside continues. That’s why we are grateful that there is an ongoing flood control project. One day, it will benefit future generations. Without it, Brgy. Somoge might disappear from the map.
“When Tropical Storm ‘Enteng’ recently hit, we were very thankful that the road (highway) didn’t flood, which used to be the signal for residents near the riverside to evacuate. Now, even if it rains all night, the road no longer floods, and we are deeply grateful to the government for providing us with this flood control project here in Brgy. Somoge,” she further stated.
“Tungkol diyan sa flood control sa may riverside, malaki ang aming pasalamat kasi noon malayo pa ang ilog sa kalsada, ngayon patuloy na scouring diyan sa may riverside. Kaya nagpapasalamat kami na may ginagawang proyekto na flood control diyan. Balang araw mapapakinabangan yan ng mga susunod na mga generasyon. Baka mawala sa mapa ang Brgy. Somoge. Recently ng dumating ang “Enteng” na tropical storm, malaki ang aming pasalamat na hindi na bumaha sa kalsada (Highway), yun ang palatandaan na kailangan na mg-evacuate ng mga taong nakatira malapit sa riverside. Sa ngayon, kahit magdamag ang pag-ulan, hindi na bumaha, kaya malaki ang aming pasalamat sa gobyerno na nagkaroon kami ng flood control project sa Brgy. Somoge.” she further stated.
This project seeks to enhance local resilience against flooding and improve the community’s quality of life.
(ANALIZA A. PABIA/PR)
