CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY(February 11) –— The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has moved to accelerate the repair and rehabilitation of infrastructure damaged by Tropical Storm Basyang, following an inspection led by Secretary Vince Dizon in Iligan City.
The inspection, conducted under a directive from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., focused on bridges and flood-control structures affected by the storm, including the Mandulog Flood Control Project, the Pinul-iran River and its bridge in Barangay Palao, and the Tubod Bridge.
“Immediate action is critical to restore safe access and prevent further disruption to the daily lives of residents,” Dizon said.
Heavy Rainfall, Severe Flooding
Iligan City Mayor Frederick Siao, who accompanied the DPWH chief, explained that the massive flooding stemmed from upland areas, with rainfall volumes equivalent to nearly 100 days of continuous rain according to weather reports.
The storm caused significant siltation and debris buildup, threatening riverbanks, bridges, and adjacent roads. To address these risks, Dizon announced the procurement of additional dredging equipment and directed DPWH-Northern Mindanao (Region 10) to fast-track rehabilitation, dredging, and clearing operations along the Pinul-iran River and affected road networks.
Maintaining Access Amid Repairs
Currently, the Mandulog and Pinul-iran bridges remain open to light and heavy vehicles on a one-way basis. The Iligan City Roads and Traffic Management Office continues to monitor traffic, allowing only one heavy vehicle at a time to ensure safety while repairs are ongoing.
“We are committed to restoring infrastructure quickly and safely, minimizing disruption to residents and transport networks,” Dizon added.
Strengthening Disaster-Resilient Infrastructure
The fast-track measures highlight the government’s focus on climate resilience and disaster preparedness, as infrastructure near rivers and flood-prone areas is reinforced against extreme weather events.
Officials emphasized that timely rehabilitation and dredging operations are essential not only for transport efficiency but also for reducing flood risks in surrounding communities.
Residents and local authorities expressed relief at the prompt response, noting that reliable roads and bridges are critical for both daily life and emergency response during disasters.
