Mayor Gasataya presses DPWH, Almana to expedite diversion channel completion

Mayor Greg Gasataya is urging the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and Almana Construction to accelerate the construction of the diversion channel along Burgos Street in the reclamation area, aiming for functional status by year-end.

Key agreements to expedite the project were finalized during the joint conference held at the Bacolod City Government Center on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.

Mayor Gasataya assured that design and equipment concerns would be resolved, enabling the simultaneous start of inlet works at Mambuloc Creek on Wednesday, August 27. These actions will facilitate water flow from the creek and nearby drainages during channel construction, reducing flood risks.

The DPWH has developed a detailed engineering plan for the coastline outfall, to be implemented by Almana Construction. The City Government has pledged to supply a flap gate and sluice gate to prevent seawater backflow, especially during high tide. The equipment is on order and expected within three months.

The inlet is slated for completion in two months, with immediate installation of the flap and sluice gates at the outfall upon arrival.

“As for the pumping station and other engineering interventions, these will be handled by the national government,” Mayor Gasataya stated. “On our part, the most important thing is to open and operationalize the channel at the soonest possible time because people have long been waiting for this project to be functional.”

He added that the clear timetable eliminates finger-pointing and assures the public of ongoing progress.

The diversion channel project, initiated in 2023, has a budget of ₱152 million.* (Bacolod City Communications Office text & photos)