Two (2) river control projects have been completed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) that will benefit residents of two (2) low-lying barangays in Cagayan de Oro City.

DPWH Secretary Mark Villar said that the slope protection project along Cagayan de Oro River in Upper Balulang Section amounting to P75-million was designed to reduce flood risks and hazards by improving the river bank stability and river capacity.

The Upper Balulang Flood Control Project covered the construction of a 145.9-meter revetment wall that stands 10 meters with scope of works covering steel sheet piles with keywalls, spur dike units with cut-off wall and earthworks.

On the other hand, Iponan River Control Project along the downstream portion of Pagatpat Bridge involved the construction of a 127.20-meter river wall inclusive of a 10-meter steel sheet pile foundation, box culvert end protection, drainage, and gabions.

The completion of the P45-million Pagatpat flood control structure will mitigate landmass deterioration and protect the existing Pagatpat Bridge and its detour.

“With these river control systems in place, we have protected residents of the flood-prone barangays of Balulang and Pagatpat who used to fear for their lives and properties during typhoon season”, said Secretary Villar.