(PIA Ilocos Norte)
LAOAG CITY – The Laoag City government is intensifying flood-management efforts through regular drainage maintenance, waterway clearing, and the acquisition of additional heavy equipment to improve its response to flooding and infrastructure concerns.
Mayor James Bryan Alcid said flooding remains a shared challenge in many communities and requires both government action and public cooperation.
Among the city’s ongoing measures are the repair and cleaning of drainage systems in the city center, including areas along Abadilla Street in Barangays 16 and 17.
Clearing operations are also continuing along Bengang and Dadauraw creeks to remove garbage and debris that may obstruct water flow. In Cataban and Caaoacan, personnel are removing accumulated water lilies that could impede drainage from the city center.
The city government has also acquired heavy equipment, including a wheeled backhoe with a concrete breaker, bulldozer, declogger, road grader, and manlift truck to support drainage maintenance, clearing operations, infrastructure repair, and other field activities.
Alcid said the city still needs additional equipment as it continues to strengthen its capacity to address flooding and other infrastructure needs.
The mayor also underscored the importance of community participation in disaster preparedness.
“We start with the basics — discipline, mindfulness, and community involvement. Together, we shall weather the storms,” Alcid said.
Laoag’s flood-management strategy combines regular maintenance, waterway clearing, equipment readiness, and community involvement as part of broader efforts to reduce flood risks and improve preparedness during periods of heavy rainfall.
