The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) completed a vital flood control project along the Padsan River in the towns of Sarrat and Piddig, Ilocos Norte — just in time for the upcoming rainy season.
In support of the “Build Better More” infrastructure program and in response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for a whole-of-government approach to mitigate the effects of climate change, the project was undertaken by DPWH Ilocos Norte 1st District Engineering Office.
“The newly completed 452.64-meter river wall protection was constructed in Barangay 6 Tonoton, Piddig and Sitio Cabuloan, Barangay San Marcos, Sarrat.”
In his report to Secretary Manuel Bonoan, DPWH Region 1 Director Ronnel Tan said that the newly completed 452.64-meter river wall protection was constructed in Barangay 6 Tonoton, Piddig and Sitio Cabuloan, Barangay San Marcos, Sarrat — both are flood-prone areas often experiencing damages from the overflowing Padsan River.
The P77.19 million structure is designed to improve waterway capacity and enhance the flood resilience of surrounding communities.
In addition to this project, DPWH is implementing seven other flood mitigation structures along Padsan River in 2024 with a total cost of P254.80 million, while four more projects costing P144.21 million are for completion this year.
“The construction of the river wall will serve as a long-term solution to protect lives, properties, and livelihoods from the devastating effects of flooding especially as we prepare for the rainy season,” Tan said.
Meanwhile, three additional flood-control projects are also underway in Sarrat, with a total allocation of P89.37 million from 2025 General Appropriations Act.
