The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has ordered JWU Construction and Supply to repair portions of a flood control project in Barangay San Juan East, Aringay, La Union, after the structure was damaged during recent severe weather.

The order covers Project No. 25AF0051, or the construction of flood control structures along the Aringay River Basin. In a Notice of Defects dated Aug. 4, 2026, the DPWH La Union 2nd District Engineering Office said about 107 meters of the structure across three sections had been damaged, which it attributed to Tropical Depression “Luis.”

Because the project remains under warranty, DPWH invoked the applicable contract provisions and directed the contractor to undertake repairs at its own expense. JWU was also ordered to conduct a joint inspection with the district office and submit a repair methodology and schedule.

JWU, in a letter dated 7 August, disputed responsibility, saying the damage was caused by force majeure due to successive typhoons and six days of heavy rainfall that increased river discharge and water velocity beyond conditions reasonably anticipated in the project's design.

The contractor denied that the damage resulted from poor workmanship, defective materials or negligence, but said it remained willing to join the inspection and assist with repairs pending a determination of responsibility.

A DPWH post-calamity assessment identified the damaged component as stone masonry works and cited Tropical Depression “Luis” and “Maymay” in connection with the incident. The district office also reported damage to other flood control structures caused by prolonged rainfall, strong river currents and debris.

The documents do not establish a final technical finding on the cause of the damage. Responsibility will depend on the joint inspection, technical findings and applicable contractual provisions.