By Felipe V. Celino
The collapse of the portion of the Panay River control had a ripple effect when it partially damaged the esplanade along Lapu-Lapu Street in Roxas City.
Mayor Ronnie Dadivas reiterated that the river control was built by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in the 1980s.
“The cause of the collapse was primarily due to structural aging and natural wear and tear of the river control,” said the city government in a statement.
After an ocular inspection, Dadivas ordered the City Engineer’s Office to coordinate with DPWH Capiz 1st District Engineering Office and the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE) to determine the full extent of the damage and the solutions.
The area has since been cordoned off to ensure public safety.
Meanwhile, Dadivas also requested the Capiz Electric Cooperative (CAPELCO) to disconnect electricity for street lights and the Metro Roxas Water District (MRWD) to shut off the damaged water line in the area.
