PTA-drainage Project Construction Continues

By Boy Ryan Zabal

The Philippine Tourism Authority (PTA) is constructing a drainage system to address the flooding in low lying areas spawned by illegal building constructions.
According to Boracay Tourism Office officer-in-charge Judith Icotanim, "the drainage system will solve flooding in the area and will complement the ongoing development efforts of the national government. It is evident during the rainy season that some low-lying areas in the island are flooded. It brings trouble to residents and tourists," she added.
The comprehensive drainage project, through the PTA, allocated P179, 990,487.28 to the Boracay Environmental Infrastructure Project (BEIP)-Drainage Component. The project involves the construction of storm drainage canals including drainage outfall structures, sediment traps; demolition and rehabilitation of existing drainage canals and general site improvement that involves installation of concrete pavers.
The drainage component includes the site development works, construction of three pumping station structures including piping, electrical and mechanical works, installation and commissioning of pumps and power supply.
Proclamation 1801, series of 1978 signed by the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos declared Boracay as a tourist zone and marine reserve, placing it under the administration and control of PTA, an entity attached with the Department of Tourism. The PTA implements policies and programs pertaining to tourism development projects in the country. Aklan Rep. Florencio Miraflores pointed out, "the PTA-initiated storm-drainage project was designed to protect and save the environs of Boracay where low-lying areas are submerged during heavy rains."
The solon was earlier dismayed of the reports of the stalled installation of the storm-drainage system due to non-cooperation of some stakeholders in the island, noting the significance of tourism amenities to guard the island from environmental degradation.
The project, said Malay Mayor Ceciron Cawaling, "will prevent flooding and recurring environmental hazards in the island after heavy monsoon rains inundating the interior parts of Balabag. Those areas submerged in floodwaters will benefit from the full completion of the PTA-funded drainage project," Cawaling added. /MP