DPWH Southern Leyte workers declog drainages in preparation for rainy days. (Photo courtesy of DPWH)
TACLOBAN CITY — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has stepped up declogging of drainages to reduce flood risks along highways in Southern Leyte province during the rainy season.
In a phone interview Wednesday, District Engineer Ma. Margarita Junia said directives to maintain free-flowing ditches, drainage, and culverts were sent to maintenance personnel after the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration announced the start of the rainy season in the country three months ago.
“We have been in full swing in cleaning up our drainage systems in key areas in the province especially that we are now on ber months,” Junia told the Philippine News Agency (PNA).
Junia said aside from declogging, projects that will be implemented this year to prevent landslides and road slips are slope protection structures along national road as well as 24 flood control projects designed to curb flooding in villages near river banks.
“Flood mitigation projects and activities as well as risk reduction for travellers are few of our major programs here in Southern Leyte as it is essential in making sure everyone’s safety. We would just like to remind everyone to remain cautious especially that our weather has become unpredictable,” Junia added.
The DPWH in Southern Leyte is tasked to maintain 299 kilometers of national roads and 155 bridges built in 18 towns and one city. (PNA)
