Pampanga residents fear possible collapse of dikes

PAMPANGA -- Residents along the major river systems and tributaries in the province expressed fear earth dikes may collapse as they were heavily damaged by continuous heavy rains.

In San Simon town, two barangays were disconnected due to the scouring of the Pampang river's earth dike connecting Sta. Cruz and San Miguel villages. Thousands of residents were affected.

The residents along the Arnedo dike in Barangay San Pedro in San Simon town said the continuous scouring of the dike might put them in danger, especially during rainy season.

Officials from the Department of Public Works and Highways said people living near the Arnedo dike should abandoned the area because it is now deteriorating and it cannot withstand the strong current of Pampanga River.

Relocation and resettlement of the people living along Arnedo dike from Arayat, Candaba, San Luis, San Simon and Apalit towns to other safer places is highly recommended, DPWH said.

In San Luis town, various damages of the Arnedo dike were seen in Sta. Catalina and San Sebastian portions.

In Candaba town, the bailey bridge along Gulap-Sto. Rosario village beside the Pampanga River collapsed which resulted to the isolation of the people in Barangay Sto. Rosario.