Authorities on Tuesday warned residents in several low-lying areas of Santa Cruz, Oriental Mindoro, of the possible collapse of a protection dike along the Old Intake Dike Road in Sitio Sahing, Barangay Alacaak, amid continued heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon.
Vice Mayor Mark Villaluna Galsim told the Inquirer in text messages that the deteriorating dike, which serves as a major defense against the Pagbahan River, had reached its ‘critical condition.’
As of 7:30 a.m. on Aug. 18, only about 1.5 to 2 meters of the protection dike remained, according to Barangay Peace and Order officer Melber Torriana.
Torriana warned that the dike could give way at any time if heavy rains continue.
A possible breach could cause floodwaters from the Pagbahan River to rapidly rise and flow toward surrounding low-lying communities, authorities said.
Residents in low-lying areas of Barangays Alacaak and San Vicente, as well as those in Mulawin and the town proper, were urged to remain alert and closely monitor advisories from local authorities.
They were also advised to prepare for possible evacuation and prioritize their safety as weather conditions continue to pose a threat.
In an earlier appeal, Galsim called for immediate intervention from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), National Irrigation Administration (NIA), and other concerned national agencies to reinforce and repair the deteriorating dike.
The vice mayor earlier estimated that about 1,000 hectares of rice land could be affected if the dike collapses, potentially causing significant damage to agriculture and the farmers’ livelihood.
Galsim reiterated the need for urgent action as heavy rains continue to affect the province, increasing the risk of flooding in vulnerable communities.