Legazpi City—A new PHP138.15-million seawall project in Tabaco City, Albay has been credited with providing critical flood protection and boosting local economic and tourism activities, as stated by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in Albay.
According to the Philippines News Agency, DPWH 1st District Engineer Rainero A. Zerda reported that the 159.26-meter seawall, located in Barangay Quinale Cabasan, has effectively shielded residents from storm surges and flooding, especially during the recent Severe Tropical Storm Enteng. Since its completion in April, the seawall has not only enhanced safety but also spurred socio-economic growth in the vicinity of the Tabaco International Port. The structure provides a secure mooring spot for ferries when not in use, thereby supporting local industries such as manufacturing, logistics, and transportation.
Zerda emphasized the seawall’s role in attracting business investments and creating job opportunities. Meanwhile, Quinale Cabasan Barangay Captain Elmer Yu Gascon highlighted the significant change in residents’ lives, noting that before the seawall’s construction, locals frequently had to evacuate during calamities. “This project helped because the waters no longer enter houses, especially during bad weather,” Gascon explained.
The seawall has also become a community hub, offering recreational spaces where residents gather, particularly in the evenings. Gascon added that the area now features a mini-park that enhances the local scenery and encourages community cleanliness and stewardship.
Moreover, the project includes additional amenities such as a two-lane coastal road with sidewalks, a docking area for efficient boarding of passengers, and solar-powered streetlights that enhance road security and visibility at night. These features not only improve daily life but also open up avenues for small businesses, fostering a vibrant local economy.