New 168-lineal meter seawall project built by the Department of Public Works and Highways in Barangay Poblacion, Banton, Romblon. (Photo courtesy of DPWH)
MANILA – A 168-lineal meter seawall project completed by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) now benefits the residents of the coastal Barangay Poblacion in Banton, Romblon.
In his report to DPWH Secretary Manuel Bonoan, Regional Office 4-B (Mimaropa) Director Gerald Pacanan said the completed Phase 2 of a coastal infrastructure project which include an elevated road, sidewalk, precast curb, and gutter, with street lights currently protects the coastal barangay from storm surge, while providing a scenic alternate route for the motorists in the area.
“The successful implementation of this project is a vital measure not only safeguarding the coastal communities but also serving as another functional roadway for residents and motorists during emergencies,” Pacanan said.
Implemented by DPWH-Romblon District Engineering Office, the seawall project aims to prevent the risk of water overflow while preserving the coast’s scenic beauty.
“Hence, the integration of a bay walk along the seawall further promotes recreational and tourism activities in the municipality of Banton,” Pacanan said in a news release on Wednesday.
Funded under the 2024 DPWH Infrastructure Program, the seawall project was completed in the amount of PHP93.4 million.
Guimaras circumferential road
The DPWH has also completed the upgrading works along sections of Guimaras Circumferential Road in Nueva Valencia and Buenavista.
DPWH Region 6 (Western Visayas) Director Sanny Boy Oropel said the project covers the widening of an 800-meter section of the major road in Barangay La Paz, Nueva Valencia, and the installation of a road slope protection along a landslide-prone section in Barangay Sto. Rosario, Buenavista.
Costing PHP39.6 million, the widened road section from two to four lanes now enhances transportation access to public and commercial establishments, and provides a more seamless travel to various tourist destinations in the town such as Biker’s Hill Resort, Tahi Beach Resort, and Guisi Lighthouse.
Meanwhile, the installed Type-1 erosion control mat covering 1,040 square meters now ensures the safety of residents and motorists traversing the road portion by stabilizing the soil condition and mitigating landslides and soil collapse during bad weather.
Other works on the PHP37-million road slope protection project include active protection system, permanent ground anchors, hydroseeding, and trapezoidal concrete lined canal with concrete blocks.
“The continuous widening of Guimaras Circumferential Road and the road slope protection project are some of the road upgrades undertaken to ensure unhampered connectivity within the island province,” Oropel said.
Both road improvement activities were implemented by DPWH Guimaras District Engineering Office. (PR)
