Part of P140-M Pampanga river wall falls before completion

A huge portion of a P140-million riverwall in San Simon, Pampanga gave way two days before it was scheduled to be completed on June 21.

According to Maki Pulido's report on Reporter's Notebook, the 95-meter segment of the 300-meter flood control structure gave way because its foundation was saturated with water.

Engineer Lita Manalo of the Department of Public Works and Highways said there must have been a leak in the pipes under the riverwall, causing water to saturate the ground.

"Nababad sa tubig [ang ilalim]," Manalo said when asked why the massive concrete wall gave way.

"Meron nag-leak siguro sa portion na yan," she added.

One-third of the construction cost had already been paid to contractors Ferdstar Builders and DL Cervantes Construction.

Reporter's Notebook tried to get their comment but was told that the contractors already submitted their report to the DPWH.

"Talagang nakahihinayang. Kaya nga sila, warranty po ng contractor yan. They will construct at their own expense," Manalo said.

"Wala kaming ibibigay kahit singko sa kanila. They will restore at their own expense," she added.

It would take one to two months to repair the riverwall that could have also provided residents in the area a better road along the riverside. —NB, GMA News