The Davao del Norte Government has purchased a Watermaster – a mobile amphibious multipurpose dredger intended primarily for the Libuganon River in Tagum City.
The province is under a state of calamity after the PHP50.3-million (around $1 million) damage in agriculture and infrastructure was recorded due to widespread flooding in six areas last week.
The Davao del Norte Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office said the that the affected local government units are the towns of Asuncion, Kapalong, Santo Tomas, New Corella, Carmen and Tagum City.
Governor Edwin Jubahib said on Friday that the dredging works will help prevent future disasters.
“Flooding is a persistent problem in our province and we must take proactive measures to mitigate its effects. The Watermaster is a crucial step towards achieving this goal,” Jubahib said.
“The Watermaster will effectively remove silt, sediment and other impurities from the river.”
“By dredging the rivers, there would be an improved flow of water and prevent flooding,” Jubahib added.
The purchase will support the province’s “Oplan Kanal (Channel)” program which entails regularly desiltation in major rivers.