The Philippines: Olongapo Dredging Program About to Begin

Olongapo Dredging Program About to Begin

Local government of Olongapo is set to begin its massive river dredging works that is meant to mitigate severe flooding in the city after receiving a P2.4 million backhoe from a mall chain.

Mayor Rolen Paulino personally tested the equipment given by SM Prime Holdings during the turnover held recently at the Marikit Park.

This donation is a big help to clear our river channels. This may not permanently drain out the flood but it will definitely lower it,” Paulino said.

Private individuals have also lent four dump trucks that would support dredging works along Banicain River.

A similar undertaking shall also be held along the Kalaklan River.

Meanwhile, Zambales 1st district representative Jeffrey Khonghun has already asked the Department of Public Works and Highways to conduct a separate dredging program along the upstream of Sta. Rita River and at the mouth of Kalaklan.

Sand or filling materials recovered from the dredging works shall be given for free to residents of Olongapo and nearby areas upon clearance from the city engineering office.

“It would be no use if we give out sand or filling materials from our desilting operation if it will return back to our rivers, we will first inspect the site to see if it fits our requirements,city engineer Ed Santos said.

The city suffered its worst flooding in years last August and September due to torrential rains caused by the Southwest monsoon that were enhanced by tropical disturbances Maring and Odette, respectively.

[mappress]

Press Release, December 9, 2013