ILOILO City – Delays in the P102.7-million Barangay Alalasan flood mitigation project have forced the Iloilo City Government to put some of its own drainage projects on hold, prompting Mayor Raisa Treñas to reject a further extension and order the national government’s engineering office to complete construction by March 2027.
The stalled project, covering a 680-meter stretch from Barangay Divinagracia in La Paz district to Barangay Don Esteban in Lapuz district, has disrupted the implementation of city-funded drainage works that must connect with the national government’s drainage system.
Treñas said the city rejected the Iloilo City District Engineering Office’s (ICDEO) request to extend construction until May 2027, insisting that the long-delayed project must be finished two months earlier.
“We gave them only until March 2027 to complete the entire stretch of the project, including the portion hasta sa Barangay Divinagracia, La Paz,” Treñas said.
The mayor directed ICDEO to deploy additional workers, accelerate construction and submit progress reports every two weeks to ensure compliance with the deadline.
“Indi pwede nga makahibalo lang kita sang status sang proyekto kun mangayo na sila sang extension,” she said.
The project, awarded to F. Gurrea Construction Inc. on Feb. 7, 2025, was originally scheduled for completion on Jan. 8, 2026.
However, construction was suspended due to a lack of coordination with the city government and resumed only in June 2026.
Beyond delaying interconnected drainage improvements, the unfinished project has drawn complaints from residents over prolonged construction disruptions, accumulated stagnant water and construction materials and equipment reportedly left piled up in work areas.
These conditions have raised concerns over public safety and possible health risks.
Treñas reminded ICDEO to strictly enforce safety measures to protect residents and motorists while construction continues.
She clarified that the project falls under ICDEO’s jurisdiction, although the city government would closely monitor its implementation because of its impact on the public.
“This is an ICDEO project, not a City Government project. But as your City Mayor, responsibilidad naton nga bantayan ang progress sini kag siguruhon nga matapos within sa timeline,” she said./PN
