Manila Bay seawall checked for cracks

MANILA, Philippines - The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is inspecting the seawall along Manila Bay after receiving reports that cracks were seen on the design of the structure.

DPWH-National Capital Region director Reynaldo Tagudando yesterday said he has ordered the inspection of the newly-repaired seawall stretching from the United States embassy to the Manila Yacht Club.

“We have already asked the agency’s Bureau of Design to inspect the seawall. The initial report that we received was that there were intermittent facial cracks but these were only on the design topping and it does not affect the structure itself,” Tagudando said.

The cracks were reportedly found in the seawall section facing the Rajah Sulayman Park in Malate.

Tagudando clarified that the cracks were not caused by rains brought by tropical storm “Gener.”

“The cracks were spotted even before the storm and that is why we have not yet fully paid the contractor,” Tagudando explained.

He added that the project cost was around P90 million.

“The contractor would have to make the necessary repairs before the project can be turned over to the DPWH. It is covered by a one-year warranty,” Tagudando said.

The 1.4-kilometer portion of the seawall was destroyed by a storm surge at the height of typhoon “Pedring” on Sept. 27, 2011.

The DPWH started working on its repairs late last year. The agency revised the design of the seawall to ensure it can withstand strong waves that crash into the structure during typhoons.

Tagudando said they have added a wave deflector designed to help throw the waves back into the Manila Bay.

The DPWH also installed geo-textile or filter cloth and concrete key to support and strengthen the seawall.

The seawall structure was also raised by eight inches from its previous height of 18 inches while its width, from 80 centimeters, now measures 120 centimeters.