Ormoc City, Leyte. As the rainy season heightens the risk of overflowing rivers and flash floods, Ormoc City has taken a major step to safeguard its communities. A newly completed flood control structure along the Haubon River, constructed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), now protects around 300 households from the destructive impact of flooding.
According to DPWH Region 8 Director Allan S. Borromeo, the project features a 350-meter river wall built with stone masonry, sheet piles, and steel slope protection. This infrastructure serves as the community’s first line of defense against river overflows, particularly during heavy rains and typhoons.
DPWH Secretary Manuel M. Bonoan underscored the importance of the project, saying, “This structure will safeguard low-lying areas during strong weather events, preventing damage to homes, farmland, and livestock.”
The Haubon River project is just one of four flood control structures built in Ormoc City. Altogether, it forms part of 13 flood control initiatives across Leyte’s 4th District, including three in Albuera, two each in Kananga and Merida, and one each in Isabel and Palompon. These projects include river dredging, foundation excavation, gabion installation, and dike construction, covering a combined length of 4,911 linear meters.
Secretary Bonoan emphasized that the DPWH remains committed to expanding such projects in disaster-prone areas. He pointed out that strengthening flood defenses is crucial not only to protect lives and properties but also to secure the agricultural sector and other vital industries that sustain local communities.
With these efforts, Ormoc City and surrounding towns are expected to face the challenges of the rainy season with stronger resilience, reducing the risks brought by recurring floods and reinforcing the government’s goal of building disaster-ready infrastructure nationwide.
The flood control initiatives in Ormoc City demonstrate the local government’s firm dedication to preventing past disasters from happening again and ensuring the safety of its people. By combining major river rehabilitation, sturdy dike systems, and targeted infrastructure in flood-prone barangays, these projects enhance the city’s defense against flooding while protecting lives, livelihoods, and vital resources. More than just physical structures, they reflect a forward-looking strategy in disaster risk reduction, proving that government support, engineering solutions, and community involvement can work together to create a safer and more resilient Ormoc City.
