ILOCOS NORTE – Residents in the coastal towns of Ilocos Norte have expressed optimism following the initiation of a seawall construction project that will extend from the village of Nalbo in Pasuquin to Barangay Paayas in the adjacent town of Burgos.
According to a new release by the Philippines News Agency, on Tuesday, the seawall is intended to act as the first line of defense against storm surges and rising seawater. "We are better prepared during calamities because this will serve as our first line of defense against storm surge and seawater rise," Ranay stated.
The Department of Public Works and Highways has received an initial funding allocation of approximately PHP28 million for Phase 1 of the seawall project, which is slated for completion next year. The construction is part of Ilocos Norte's broader efforts to enhance resiliency and disaster preparedness, which include other flood-control structures across the province to prevent coastal erosion and protect local communities.
Several of these additional flood-control projects are situated in the first district of Ilocos Norte, encompassing cities and towns such as Bacarra, Pasuquin, Burgos, and Pagudpud. In Pasuquin alone, about 23 families in the village of Caruan have previously been advised to relocate due to threats from storm-generated waves and other adverse weather conditions.
The Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction, Management and Resiliency Council remains vigilant, especially during inclement weather, monitoring villages in vulnerable areas to implement forced evacuations if deemed necessary.