By I. Inojales | 03:40 PM October 29, 2025
TAGBILARAN CITY– The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Bohol 3rd District Engineering Office issued a statement on Wednesday, October 29, clarifying the reported damage to a portion of the Gabayan River Flood Control structure in Candijay town.
According to the DPWH, the incident occurred early Tuesday morning following heavy rainfall that caused a large accumulation of water behind the flood control wall. The surge of water reportedly saturated the soil and pushed the structure toward the river, resulting in partial damage.
District Engineer Magiting Cruz explained that the damage was not due to river flow or design failure, but rather to an “unexpected volume of rainwater” that exceeded normal conditions. The structure, which was completed in 2024 under the project “23HB0069 – Construction of Anoling–Tubod–Gabayan Flood Control, Candijay, Bohol,” is part of a multi-year flood protection program for high-risk areas.
Cruz said the project was designed to withstand water pressure and prevent riverbank erosion, incorporating weepholes for drainage. However, the recent rainfall produced water levels beyond previous observations in the area.
The DPWH added that the project remains under the contractor’s structural liability period. Manpower and equipment have already been deployed to begin immediate restoration work.
“The DPWH assures the public that the project was planned, designed, and built following all DPWH standards and specifications,” Cruz said, adding that the technical team is currently reviewing possible design improvements to further strengthen the affected area.
The agency also thanked the public for their concern and reiterated its commitment to transparency, accountability, and continued public service.
