Residents of Barangay Baresbes in Dingras, Ilocos Norte are worried about the fast-approaching rainy season due to the rapid overflow of a creek nearby, which has flooded their homes.
The problem has persisted for the past three years that even a small amount of rain forces them to bring their livestock away from the creek.
They called for help from the government, which sent representatives to assess the households affected.
"Nagpapasalamat kami at sana naman hindi na kami mabaha dito," Linda Tolentino, a resident, said.
The creek is now only about two meters away from the houses. The residents hope the project will be completed before the rainy season begins.
"Hoping na matatapos hanggang one month, at kausap ko na rin si [barangay chairman] kaninang umaga na kapag nandito na ‘yung backhoe, tulungan nalang sa pag-divert ng tubig para tuloy-tuloy yung trabaho, at sana walang malakas na ulan para hindi sila maantala,” Mayor Joefrey Saguid of Dingras, said.
The Municipal Engineering Office has said repairs on dikes adjacent to the creek are set to begin.