Flood Control Project Enhances Drainage at Strawberry Farm
BAGUIO CITY — The flood control project at the strawberry farm in La Trinidad, Benguet, is showing clear benefits by accelerating the drainage of floodwaters that once overwhelmed the area during heavy rains. This flood control project has become a crucial development in managing the frequent flooding issues that have long plagued the locality.
Local leaders reported that since its construction in 2021, the flood control project has drastically reduced the time floodwaters remain on the farm. Mayor Roderick Awingan shared in a recent interview that water now drains in just a few hours, a significant improvement compared to the days it took before the project’s implementation.
Project Impact and Ongoing Challenges
“The flood control project helped, although there needs to be some fixing for it to become more effective,” the mayor said. He clarified that the initiative, officially categorized as a “drainage project,” was carried out by the Department of Public Works and Highways. Community members noted that the persistent flooding during the rainy season previously affected not only the strawberry plantations but also the nearby souvenir shops, causing widespread disruption.
Despite the progress, officials reported that the project has not completely resolved flooding issues. However, the positive impact is unmistakable. “When the flood control was not yet there, the flood took days to subside. We saw the improvements, as water now subsides in a few hours,” the mayor emphasized.
Root Causes and Future Plans
According to local authorities, the remaining flooding problem is linked to the water’s exit point near the Balili River. The large volume of water from Bolo Creek struggles to flow out efficiently due to the Balili River’s own water levels. Officials stressed that addressing this bottleneck is essential for a long-term solution.
Mayor Awingan highlighted the importance of cooperation over blame, stating, “Our welfare is more important than looking for who is at fault.” He has convened with municipal engineers to explore both short-term fixes and sustainable, long-term strategies to improve flood management in the area.
Community Involvement and Transparency
The mayor reaffirmed his commitment to transparency and public participation in infrastructure projects. He insisted that community consultation is vital to ensure that the projects meet the needs of residents and stakeholders effectively.
As the flood control project continues to evolve, local leaders remain hopeful that ongoing improvements will fully address the flooding challenges that have long affected the strawberry farm and surrounding businesses.
For more news and updates on flood control projects, visit Filipinokami.com.
