The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has completed two projects that would mitigate flooding in the low-lying areas of Zambales province.

With a total cost of PHP154.2 million, the DPWH-Zambales’ 2nd District Engineering Office finished the construction of a 374-linear meter revetment wall on a steel sheet pile foundation in the Looc section and the 336-lineal meter slope protection structure in the San Agustin section, both along the Pamatawan River in Castillejos town.

District engineer Rosbe Dizon said on Tuesday the DPWH continues to build flood mitigation structures to ensure the protection of residents from threats of flooding during the rainy season.

Dizon said the newly constructed revetment wall is connected to the existing concrete slope protection along the Pamatawan River.

“We know that southwest monsoon rains could raise water levels in major waterways in the province, such as the Pamatawan River, and could cause severe flooding, so we hope this flood control project will provide additional protection to residents, especially those living in low-lying areas,” he said in a statement.

Meanwhile, he said the slope protection structure complements the existing river walls along the Pamatawan River that could help prevent riverbank erosion.

Dizon said the implementation of those types of projects would not only reduce the damage that flooding could cause to physical infrastructure but would also help ensure the continuity of economic and social activities in flood-prone areas.

The two flood mitigation projects were funded under the 2022 General Appropriations Act. (PNA)