Group seeks more research for P7.9-B Tacloban project

MANILA, Philippines – Officials and members of an urban poor group yesterday asked the Department of Public Works and Highways to conduct a thorough study of a proposed P7.9-billion embankment project in Tacloban City, Leyte.

Denis Murphy, director of the United Poor Associates, said the proposed storm surge protection project will cover 27.3 kilometers of shorelines, from Tacloban to Tanauan town.

Murphy said the government has not conducted any simulation or research on how the 4.5-meter high embankment would affect the communities in the area. He said the project would displace 14,000 families.

While the project was meant to protect the people from storm surges and tsunamis, Murphy said the government could get a clearer picture of its outcome if it would conduct simulations.

He said the water might still find its way into the city, through a different and a more destructive route.