San Jose City, Nueva Ecija — The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) said on Friday that it has completed a 214-meter flood mitigation structure along the Talavera River in Barangay Palestina in this city.

Implemented by the Nueva Ecija 1st District Engineering Office (DEO), the P47.8-million structure, connected to existing river walls, is designed to enhance the safety of local residents from river overflow while also protecting nearby agricultural lands from flood-related damage.

“Barangay Palestina, known for its vegetable production, faces recurring flooding due to its proximity to the Talavera River. During super typhoon "Pepito," flooding rendered a section of the national road in the barangay passable only by heavy vehicles,” District Engineer Osias Santos said.

He added that the two-berm structure, built on a steel sheet pile foundation with a concrete beam coping and concrete slope protection, is designed to prevent erosion and ensure long-term stability, particularly during the rainy season.

Funded under the 2024 national budget, the project is part of a series of flood control structures along the Talavera River, aimed at strengthening flood defenses in the area to ensure long-term sustainability and support the livelihoods of local farmers.

Meanwhile, the DPWH Nueva Ecija 2nd DEO has completed a two-story multipurpose building in Barangay Santo Cristo, San Antonio, which now serves as the new Barangay Health Center, replacing the old facility built in the 1980s.

OIC-District Engineer Rober Jay Panaligan said that the 146.83-square meter facility now provides the community with modern healthcare services. This upgrades the healthcare infrastructure that had served the barangay for over four decades.

“We are confident that this project will enhance healthcare delivery in the barangay. The facility includes two comfort rooms, two pantries, a medical storage room, a function hall, a lobby, an office, a PWD ramp, and three air-conditioning units, improving accessibility, comfort, and services for staff, visitors and patients,” Panaligan explained.