6 Iloilo towns at risk
P60M needed to repair cracks at Moroboro dam

By Florence F. Hibionada
Correspondent

Some P60 million is needed for the repairs of the Moroboro Dam in Dingle, Iloilo following the discovery of cracks placing six Iloilo towns in its path at risk.

With the matter brought to the attention of the National Disasater Coordinating Council (NDCC), concerned mayors further discussed said concern before the League of Municapilities (LMP) in Iloilo. The dam is source of water for some 14,000 hectares of riceland in the towns of Dingle, Dumangas, Barotac Nuevo, Zarraga, Anilao and Pototan.

Reports have it that some 15 centimeters of one wall portion of the dam began showing cracks that caused Dumangas Mayor Rolly Distura to rally support for repair from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Department of Agriculture.

In an interview, Pototan Mayor Pablo Perez confirmed to The News Today (TNT) the LMP discussion while adding how various proposals are being studied on how to raise the P60 million rehabilitation fund. Among those offered is the affected town's use of its calamity fund yet as Mayor Perez adds, such may not find legal basis.

The mayor further disclosed of yet another concern that water downstream the dam appeared to have increased in depth. Yet Mayor Perez was quick to allay fears of any imminent danger saying the reports for now are meant to correct the defects so as not to lead to a major accident.

"If not repaired, the concern is that it may topple down so the six towns identified are the ones at risk. For now though there is no imminent danger," he ended.