President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday inspected the unfinished flyover in Pavia town, Iloilo, and the ongoing flood control project in neighboring Jaro district of Iloilo City.

President Marcos’ convoy passed by the Anganan Flyover so he can personally assess the construction, which was started in 2019 but was suspended due to project flaws.

Flaws were reportedly found in the flyover’s original design, as well as in the survey for the foundation’s depth. Construction work has been suspended, causing traffic jams in the area.

Correcting the flaws would involve jet grouting. Funds for the correction would be sourced from the budget allocated for finishing works, which will likely result in a shortage of funds to complete the project.

It was learned that the contractor for the Anganan Flyover, IBC International Builders Corporation, also built the Ungka Flyover in Iloilo City which was temporarily closed in 2024 due to structural issues.

Data from the sumbongsapangulo.ph website indicates that IBC International Builders Corporation also has 22 flood control projects worth a total of Php1.55 billion across Region VI (Western Visayas).

Twelve of those projects, worth a total Php973.84 million, are in Iloilo.

During his visit, President Marcos also inspected Sections 9 and 10 of the Flood Mitigation Project in Iloilo City. The sections are located in Barangay San Isidro, Jaro district.

The Chief Executive called on the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), as well as local government units (LGU), to ensure durable, reliable, and appropriate flood control projects.

President Marcos also directed the DPWH, LGUs, and the Department of Economy, Planning, and Development to continue their audit and performance review, and hold accountable negligent and corrupt individuals to ensure that government funds will truly benefit ordinary citizens. | PND