CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — February 7, 2026 — Cagayan de Oro’s 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez personally led an on-site inspection on Friday afternoon following the typhoon-induced damage to a flood control structure along the Cugman River in Baloy, Barangay Tablon, raising serious concerns over public safety and the integrity of vital infrastructure.
The inspection came after former Barangay Kagawad Elmer Cotiamco reported the damage to Rodriguez during the onslaught of Typhoon Basyang. Alarmed by the potential risks to nearby communities, the lawmaker immediately coordinated with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 2nd District Engineering Office, headed by District Engineer JP Lisondra.
During the inspection, Engr. Lisondra explained that the damage resulted from the unexpected entry of strong river currents into the land-side portion of the structure. According to him, floodwaters entered through an unfunded and unconstructed upstream section of the dike, creating a gap that allowed water to force its way behind the structure.
He said the water pressure damaged an estimated 80-meter stretch of the concrete facing and topping. The situation was aggravated by mud, soil, and debris carried by the floodwaters, which increased the stress on the structure. Part of the water flowed toward the Butuan–Cagayan–Iligan Road (BCIR), while the rest surged behind the flood control system.
Engr. Lisondra assured Rep. Rodriguez that the foundation of the structure remains intact and stable. He also stressed that the project, implemented by RN Builders, was closely monitored and complied with contractual specifications. Based on DPWH records, he added, this was the only flood control facility under the 2nd District Engineering Office that sustained damage during the typhoon.
However, while officials emphasized compliance and stability, concerns remain that technical explanations and assurances alone are insufficient—especially for a project meant to protect lives and properties from flooding.
Flood control structures are critical safety barriers, particularly in flood-prone communities along major river systems. Any failure, partial or otherwise, exposes residents to serious risks, including sudden flooding, property destruction, and possible loss of life. Community leaders and observers stressed that even limited damage must be treated as a warning sign, not merely as an isolated incident.
Rep. Rodriguez underscored the need for accountability and transparency by directing both the DPWH 2nd District and RN Builders to submit a comprehensive written report within 10 days. The report is expected to detail the causes of the damage, construction methods, compliance with design standards, and measures to prevent similar incidents.
Both the DPWH and the contractor committed to comply with the directive.
Engr. Lisondra also announced that RN Builders has agreed to immediately carry out repair works at no additional cost to the government. The rehabilitation is expected to begin on February 7 and be completed within three to four weeks.
While the prompt response was welcomed, experts and local stakeholders stressed that repairs alone are not enough. They called for an independent and thorough investigation to determine whether design flaws, construction gaps, budget limitations, or oversight lapses contributed to the damage.
“This is not just about fixing concrete,” a community leader said. “This is about ensuring that the structure can truly withstand future storms and protect people.”
Adding to the concern is the lack of an approved budget for the flood control project in 2026. The DPWH expressed hope that funding for the unfinished or unfunded section will be restored in 2027. This section is considered crucial in preventing river overflow into residential and agricultural areas behind the structure.
Until the gap is completed, residents remain vulnerable to similar or even worse incidents during future typhoons.
Rep. Rodriguez reiterated his commitment to transparency and integrity in government infrastructure projects, particularly those directly affecting public safety. He emphasized that quality construction must be matched by rigorous monitoring, full funding, and independent review.
“Assurance is important, but it is not enough,” the lawmaker said. “What is needed is a thorough investigation and concrete action to ensure that this flood control system truly serves its purpose.”
As climate change continues to intensify storms and flooding across Mindanao, the incident in Barangay Tablon serves as a stark reminder that infrastructure failures—no matter how limited they may seem—can have far-reaching consequences.
For residents living along the Cugman River, the damaged structure is more than a technical issue. It is a matter of safety, security, and trust in the institutions tasked with protecting their lives.