THE Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 3rd engineering district in Bohol has explained as regards the collapsed seawall project in barangay West Poblacion, Garcia-Hernandez town after it was brought to its attention.
The statement issued by DPWH-3 thru district Engr. Magiting Cruz surfaced after media last week exposed the extent of the seawall’s damage after it collapsed.
“The damaged structure in question is part of the project titled “Construction of Flood Mitigation Structure – Construction of Seawall, West Poblacion, Garcia Hernandez, Bohol, implemented in 2019. The project spans 136.0 meters and was completed at a total cost of P6.5 million,” the statement said sent to this writer.
The project is part of the “Construction of Flood Mitigation Structure – Construction of Seawall West Poblacion, Garcia Hernandez, Bohol. The damage of the seawall is primarily caused by natural forces, including the impact of Typhoon Odette, continuous heavy rainfall from monsoons and shear-line activities, and exposure to strong waves.”
Accordingly, the environmental conditions has contributed to the gradual deterioration of the structure over time and is not to be blamed on “recent construction activities or negligence.”
DPWH confirms that the seawall was constructed based on the engineering standards applicable at the time of construction.
The project which was completed in 2019 underwent a thorough assessment by a technical team as requested by the local government unit in a bid to prevent storm surges and flooding.
Engr. Cruz, in the statement “assured the public that this matter has not been overlooked. In fact, the rehabilitation of the seawall has already been included in the DPWH’s Programs, Activities, and Projects (PAPs) under the FY 2026 Budget Proposal—well before the issue was brought to public attention.”
He repeated in saying that there are no ghost projects in his area of jurisdiction. In fact, his office has closely coordinated with the concerned LGUs, including Congresswoman Kristine Alexie Tutor when she took office in 2019 in carrying out its job.
The statement said DPWH welcomes feedback from the public on matters of public concerns even as he expressed appreciation to the media for “fair and balanced reporting by including our side of the story.” (RVO)
