By Ruel Orinday Flood-control structures in Buenavista and Catanauan, Quezon, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance disaster resilience in v...
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| Flood-control structures in Buenavista and Catanauan, Quezon, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance disaster resilience in vulnerable communities. |
LUCENA CITY, Quezon — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Calabarzon has completed key flood-control structures in Buenavista and Catanauan, Quezon, as part of ongoing efforts to enhance disaster resilience in vulnerable communities.
According to the DPWH, the structures are part of the flood management initiatives under the “Build Better More” program of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., which prioritizes safety, resilience, and the sustainable development of communities across the country.
Among the completed projects is a 406-meter revetment on the left side of the Piris River in Buenavista, Quezon, which is expected to protect and improve the safety of communities along the river during typhoons and heavy rains.
In a statement, DPWH IV-A Regional Director Jovel G. Mendoza said the structure is the first phase of a larger flood control project aimed at reducing flood risks in Buenavista.
“Frequent flooding has historically damaged homes, farmlands, and local roads, disrupting livelihoods and economic activity. Beyond its primary function, the project also revitalizes the riverside, creating improved public spaces that promote recreation and community engagement,” Mendoza said.
He added that the project was funded under the 2024 DPWH Regular Infrastructure Program, with a contract amount of ₱96.5 million.
Following the completion of the project, residents living along the Piris River now enjoy safer living conditions.
Vincent Paña, a resident of Barangay Poblacion, expressed gratitude to the national government and the DPWH, noting that the flood control project is a significant help to their community.
“Thank you so much to all the kind-hearted people behind this remarkable project in our town. This will greatly help our community by preventing flooding during the rainy season.”
In addition to the revetment, four other infrastructure projects are also being implemented in Buenavista, amounting to ₱29.11 million. These include river improvements along the Hagonghong Communal Irrigation System, construction of the Rizal–Villa Magsaysay Road, and the development of two multi-purpose buildings in Barangay Maligaya and Barangay Batabat Norte.
Earlier this year, DPWH IV-A also completed two flood control projects in Catanauan, Quezon, to address recurring flooding in riverside communities.
These include a 255.20-meter river wall and a 380-meter embankment, both designed to protect residents, particularly those in Barangay 10.
“The river wall will serve as a protective barrier against flooding, safeguarding residential areas, roads, plantations, and other critical infrastructure from flood-related damage, while ensuring the long-term safety and viability of the community,” Mendoza said.
He added that flooding along the Catanauan River has caused significant losses over the years, including property destruction, livelihood disruptions, and even loss of life.
Implemented by the DPWH Quezon 3rd District Engineering Office, the Catanauan flood control structures were funded under the 2024 General Appropriations Act (GAA) with a combined budget of ₱170 million.
“Beyond flood mitigation, the project also supports environmental sustainability by integrating hard engineering solutions with natural flood defenses. The revetment design allows mangroves and other vegetation to flourish in front of the structure,” Mendoza added.
With the completion of these flood control projects in Quezon Province, Mendoza reaffirmed the agency’s support for the infrastructure priorities of the Marcos administration.
“The DPWH remains committed to supporting the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. in enhancing the country’s disaster resiliency and protecting vulnerable communities from natural disasters,” he said.
In November 2024, President Marcos Jr. directed the DPWH to fast-track key flood control projects across the country to address increasing flooding risks and climate impacts. (PIA Quezon with reports from DPWH 4A)
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