PB supports project to remove cracks on Boljoon’s Ili Rock

CEBU, Philippines - The “calamity project” of the Department of Public Works and Highways which covers the slope benching of controversial Ili Rock in Boljoon town has gained support from the Provincial Board.

The body, in a resolution, believes that the project in the second district of the province serves as mitigating measure since it seeks to eliminate the cracked portion of the hill to prevent rocks from falling as they pose danger to motorists.

Board members Christopher Baricuatro and Peter Calderon, who represent the second district to the PB, sponsored the resolution.

The PB said the cracks on the Ili Rock were already visible since 2007, but the magnitude 7.2  earthquake in October last year aggravated them and triggered the boulders to fall on the road.

“To reduce/eliminate this potential hazard and to ensure the safety of motorists and the people of Boljoon, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Cebu hereby expresses its full support (to the calamity project),” part of the resolution read.

The body also favored to continue earthmoving works on the hill which have been suspended for almost two weeks now pending a dialogue with the local officials and the residents.

The controversial project was opposed by the residents who are concerned on its heritage value.

District Engineer James Dellosa, who was invited by the PB during its regular session on Monday, said a public forum will be held on Friday to shed light on the issue and the purpose of the project.

Josephine Alita, geologist of the Mines and Geosciences Bureau-7, who was also invited during the session, explained that slopes pose risk as they easily get weakened during rain that even vibration from the trucks and buses can trigger the boulders to fall.

She said that the slope benching was just the appropriate method to be undertaken to prevent rock slide.— (FREEMAN)