Public works cmte tackles infrastructure concerns

THE City Council committee on public works, chaired by Councilor Al Legaspi Sr., convened on August 1 to address issues related to drainage, flooding, and ongoing public works in the city.

STAGNANT WATER AT MACANHAN

First on the agenda was the special report presented by Councilor Aga Suan during the council’s 3rd Regular Session, which highlighted the persistent flooding at the flyover junction in Barangay Carmen.

A representative from the City Engineer’s Office reported that following Councilor Suan’s report, an inspection was conducted at the site, confirming the presence of stagnant water and flooding in the area.

As a short-term measure, the committee agreed to conduct a regular declogging and rehabilitation of the existing drainage system and construction of a small canal were recommended.

For a long-term solution, the committee proposed the construction of a new drainage system.

To facilitate this, the committee will endorse coordination with the district representative to possibly insert the project in the proposed infrastructure funding for the following year, upon submission of a detailed proposal from the City Engineer’s Office.

RESOLVING CITY FLOODING

The committee also deliberated on a letter-complaint submitted by Mr. Joel A. Muldez, a resident of Barangay Lapasan, regarding ongoing canal construction and riprapping works that could potentially affect nearby homes.

Representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Barangay Lapasan, led by Punong Barangay Julito Ogsimer, were present and agreed to schedule an on-site inspection with the concerned residents.

Also taken up during the meeting were updates on the status of the drainage system in Zone 6, Barangay Bulua, and the ongoing road concreting projects in Barangay Canitoan.

The committee advised that the Bulua Barangay Council pass a resolution seeking support from the district representative for more funding and expedite the drainage works.

Meanwhile, a representative from the DPWH 1st District Engineering Office assured the committee that all road projects in Barangay Canitoan remain on track for completion.

The committee also took up the concerns on the recurring flooding along the canal in Barangay Iponan, where routine declogging is currently being conducted while further assessment is ongoing to determine the most effective long-term solution.

The other issue pertained to unfinished construction along Rizal Street in Barangay 2. The City Engineer’s Office reported that work is currently underway and completion is expected soon.

Councilors Aga Suan, Yvy Emano, and Kenneth John Sacala attended the committee meeting to lend their insights and support to the discussions. (SPE/SP/Photos by JBD)