Aklan Flood Rehab Program

Aklan Flood Rehab Program is the main topic discussed during last Saturdays Kapehan Sa Aklan, August 16, 2008.
Atty. Allen S. Quimpo, Chairman of "Bangon Akean" presented the proposed Flood Rehabilitation Program of Aklan. According to him, Bangon Aklan is composed of persons representing all members of the Aklanon community. Quimpo calls it the Multi Sectoral Body which crafted the Rehab Plan. Quimpo agreed the plan is less than perfect and called for some comments and recommendation. Anything left out will be included.
According to Quimpo, the Aklan Rehab Plan has several components which are the following:
1. Infrastructure which is the dredging of rivers, repairs of roads which needs P3 billion budget;
2. Economic Sector which calls for the inventory of fallen trees, topographic survey of Aklan river and banks stabilization by planting trees like bamboo. This needs P500,00 budget;
3. Social Sector which concerns education, health and other social services; and
4. Administrative Management – This will enhance LGU’s managerial capabilities and the provision of the necessary technical services in project administration and management.
Mr. Raul Lorilla, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Officer of Aklan was represented by Ms. Merlene Aborka and Mr. Perlito Rico. They told the Kapehan the DENR roles in the Flood Rehab.
Atty. Florencio Gonzales who claims as environment expert spoke of his analysis of the causes of destruction of Typhoon Frank of August 21. According to Gonzales, the Bakhawan growing in Brgy. Buswang and the sand bars at Sooc river blocked the flow of water which hastened its depth and length of stay thereby destroying lives and property.
After he was finished of his presentation, Atty. Gonzales begged off to leave for another appointment. The members of the media were unable to ask Atty. Gonzales any question.
Atty. Allen S. Quimpo with the assistance of Mr. Philip Sage held a power point presentation which informed the Kapehan of the status of the Aklan and Sooc rivers, the magnitude of typhoon Frank, its wind velocity, volume of rain and the condition in the highland of Libacao that brought heavy damages to property, deaths and missing persons.
Quimpo proved the Bakhawan is not the actual culprit of flooding. Hon. Rodson Mayor who visited the Sooc River and the Bakhawan with other members of the SP supported Quimpo’s opinion. /MP