CITY OF SAN FERNANDO – The diversion channel from Gugu River going to Pasig Potrero River finally opened Saturday after the month-long desilting and rechanneling works facilitated by the provincial government and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), authorities reported Monday.

This transpired during the assembly of village officials from City of San Fernando and the towns of Sto. Tomas and Minalin – areas greatly affected by the damaged portions of the tail dike, called for by Governor Lilia G. Pineda.

According to Engineer Luisito Sibug of the Mt. Pinatubo Emergency Project Office of the DPWH, the current from Gugu River started flowing towards the diversion channel Saturday evening, passing the rivers of Dalan Pari and Labuan.

“Initially, we planned to start the rechanneling Tuesday or Wednesday. However, heavy rains over the weekend brought a large volume of water from upstream and led to the flow of water towards the intended diversion channel,” Sibug disclosed.

Sibug added, a dike with the same elevation as the existing dike in Gugu had been constructed to protect the new water channel. Another dike was also put in place to ensure the safety and integrity of the first dike and will serve as the second line of defense.

Furthermore, DPWH officials were hopeful with the new development and expressed gratitude to the provincial government for its usual support.

“This project would not be successful without the assistance of the provincial government, through the leadership of Governor Pineda,” Sibug declared.

The Capitol had facilitated the rechanneling works in the areas of Minalin and Sto. Tomas, deploying back hoes and barges, with support from the quarry operators of the province.

Sibug also announced, the rehabilitation of the two breached portion of the tail dike will commence when the area becomes dry and fit for construction.

However, Governor Pineda warned the village officials from the affected towns and city not to be complacent as the two breached portions of the tail dike are not repaired yet.

“We have to remain vigilant as we are not totally safe until the breached portions are repaired. But after this assembly, you now have good news to share with the residents of your respective areas and use this information to ease their worries and regain peace of mind,” Pineda instructed.