CADIZ CITY, Negros Occidental – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has delivered a significant infrastructure project aimed at protecting the coastal community of Barangay Zone 1 in Cadiz City.
An ₱87-million seawall, constructed by the DPWH Negros Occidental 1st District Engineering Office, now stands to safeguard residents and their homes from the potential threats posed by strong waves and tidal surges.
The project, comprising an 835.57-lineal meter long and 3-meter high concrete seawall, includes a 4-meter wide reinforced concrete slab and a 0.5-meter high mattress designed to deflect waves.
According to DPWH 6 Regional Director Sanny Boy O. Oropel, the seawall is a crucial barrier intended to protect the coastal areas from erosion and flooding.
“This seawall will assure residents living along the coastal areas, especially fisherfolk, that they will be protected against possible threats of strong waves and tides,” Oropel said.
He further explained that the structure absorbs and reflects wave energy, thereby preventing further erosion and stabilizing the shoreline.
“By stabilizing the shoreline, seawalls help safeguard coastal communities, infrastructure, and ecosystems from the destructive forces of storms, tides, and rising sea levels,” he added.
District Engineer Dene B. Baldonado Jr. highlighted additional benefits, noting that the seawall provides a safe anchorage for fisherfolk during high tides and typhoons.
“This separator offers a safer venue for our fisherfolk in docking their boats during high tides or typhoons, protecting their means of livelihood. This will also minimize the impact of water current from the sea to the communities,” Baldonado said.