Several government flood control projects in Region 1 were damaged by recent storms, raising concerns among residents about construction quality and causing the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to defend its projects.

A total of 78 flood control projects across the region were affected, including a dike in Barangay Santa Rita East, Aringay, La Union.

Residents said they were surprised the structure gave way even before completion.

“Kung quality ‘yan, hindi masisira ‘yan. Dati may mga bato diyan malalaki kaya lang inalis nila, kaya kaunting ulan wala na,” Julie Abellera, a resident, said.

DPWH Region 1 Director, Engr. Ronnel Tan, stressed that damage was caused by extreme weather, not poor workmanship.

“Sa dami ng bagyong dumating, Signal Number 5 Egay, Signal Number 4 Emong, hindi maiwasan na ma-damage. Pero just the same, sabi ko basta may damage sinusulatan ang contractor since may warranty,” Tan said.

The DPWH said repairs are ongoing and are funded by contractors under the five-year warranty coverage of the projects affected.

On allegations of corruption in flood control works nationwide, Tan assured that Region 1 projects are legitimate.

“Very sure kami dito sa amin na wala kaming ghost project dito dahil lahat ng ginagawa namin dito sa region ay ina-accept ng district engineer,” he said.

Tan added that all completed and ongoing projects are closely monitored and personally inspected by his office.