DPWH coastal infra brings safety to barangay in Bislig City
By Nida Grace P. Barcena
For many years, residents of Purok 3 in Barangay Mangagoy, Bislig City, lived in constant fear every time storm surges struck, as floodwaters would quickly invade their homes and damage their belongings.
Today, that anxiety is slowly giving way to relief and optimism with the ongoing construction of a protective coastal structure by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), offering the community renewed hope for safety and resilience.
Rexchele P. Elamina, a teacher and Gamaon district chairperson, shared how the project has transformed the community. “Now that a protective structure is being built, residents are looking forward to peace of mind and stress-free living even during bad weather conditions.”
More than protection
While its primary purpose is to shield communities from flooding, the structure has also become a space for health and wellness activities. Residents have begun using the area for sports and exercise, making it a hub for community engagement.
“We are happy because residents are also using it for sports. Some are using the area for jogging and sometimes for Zumba, activities that are beneficial to the health of our residents,” Elamina said.
Barangay Mangagoy, the most populated barangay in Bislig City with 30,541 residents as of the 2020 census, is particularly vulnerable to storm surges given its coastal location. As Bislig continues to highlight its eco-tourism and coastal attractions, the need for resilient infrastructure becomes increasingly vital.
Residents have expressed their gratitude to the DPWH for the timely intervention and are eagerly awaiting the full completion of the project. For them, the structure symbolizes not only protection against nature’s threats but also a space that fosters stronger community ties and healthier living.
With this project, the people of Barangay Mangagoy can now look forward to safer days ahead, where resilience and community spirit go hand in hand. (NGPB, PIA Surigao del Sur With a report from DPWH-SDS)
