The Palawan 3rd District Engineering Office (DEO) of the public works and highways department has completed the construction of a 102.41-meter flood control structure near the Babuyan Bridge on the Maoyon River’s left bank.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Mimaropa stated in a report that the project’s goal is to safeguard the local population from disastrous flooding, particularly during typhoons and strong rains, such as Typhoon Odette, when the river overflowed, destroying houses and livelihoods.
A report to DPWH Mimaropa Regional Director Gerald A. Pacanan made by 3rd District Engineer Amelia Fajardo indicated that the flood control structure includes an esplanade and important flood management elements such as drainage systems, bank protection, and earthworks.
The structure is designed to prevent the Maoyon River from overflowing during severe weather, thereby protecting the neighboring population and reinforcing the Babuyan Bridge, the only bridge connecting the Puerto Princesa North Road.
She explained that the esplanade provides a safe passage along the riverbanks during the monsoon season, while the flood control structure promotes environmental stability by reducing riverbank erosion, improving water drainage, and increasing the area’s flood resistance.
