Flash floods caused by heavy downpour and the overflow of major rivers in North Cotabato have destroyed more than PHP21 million worth of infrastructure projects.

The weekend flooding caused by a sudden heavy downpour has affected the adjoining agricultural towns of Makilala, M’lang, Antipas, and Tulunan, the provincial engineering office said in its report to Gov. Nancy Catamco on Tuesday.

“The Saturday flash floods that hit parts of the low-lying towns have destroyed an overflow bridge, three hanging bridges, flood control dikes, and 142 houses,” Engr. Domingo Doyongan Jr., the acting provincial engineer, said.

He added that fish pens in the four agricultural towns were also destroyed and freshwater fish were washed away from the overflowing Malasila River by rampaging floodwaters with mud, boulders, and forest products.

Catamco, for her part, said that the provincial government is currently working with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 2nd Engineering District Office for the rehabilitation of the damaged government projects.

“I am ordering the provincial engineering office to come up with a program of work so rehabilitation can immediately begin,” Catamco said.

Catamco assured residents in the affected areas that the provincial government will find means to fund the rehabilitation of the damaged projects. (PNA)