PGMA lauds Iloilo control project

PAVIA, ILOILO – President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has lauded the construction of the multi-billion peso Iloilo floodcontrol project starting at the mouth of two congruent rivers here as a major achievement of her administration.

The President visited the project August 13, 2009 and for the first time, saw the project accomplishment along the Anilao Bridge here and to determine what more can she give to the people here.

Department of Public Works and Highways project management officer Engr. Patrick Gatan briefed the President on the overall 86 percent accomplishment or some 5 percent ahead of schedule of completion including the Jaro floodway which is slated for completion by December 2009.

PMO Engr. Al Fruto based at the project site said that while the floodway is scheduled for completion this yearend, the whole project components will be in full operation only by July 10, 2010.

The project will cost the national government and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) some P5.587 billion divided into two packages contracted by two international contractors.

Hanjin Heavy Industries and Construction Co. of Korea is currently working on Package I that include the construction of the 4.75 kilometer Jaro floodway and 7 bridges spanning the two rivers; and the improvement of the Aganan and Tigum rivers, thereby posting an overall actual accomplishment of 79.6 percent.

Package 2 is contracted by China International Water and Electric Corp. of China that include the improvement of the Jaro River mouth, Iloilo River, Upper Ingore Creek and the Carpenter’s Bridge by posting an overall actual accomplishment of 98.15 percent.

Gatan told the President the project will help mitigate flashfloods and provide safe living condition of the people of Iloilo City and nearby municipalities.

After the briefing at the floodway project site, the President and her entourage proceeded to the Municipality of Alimodian, Iloilo to lead the groundbreaking of the P166 million Nichols Bridge as part of the Tulay ng Pangulo sa Barangay program.

The bridge located at the town proper was constructed in 2004 but was one of the 11 bridges in the province of Iloilo destroyed by Typhoon Frank in June 2008.

The President left Iloilo late afternoon of the same day.

By Lydia C. Pendon