By Leilanie G. Adriano
Staff Reporter
Paoay, Ilocos Norte—Improper waste disposal has worsened flooding problem in this town as tons of debris clogged a waterway connecting Brgys. Pannaratan and Cayubog.
The local government unit here led by acting Mayor Romulo Acdal conducted the removal of plastic trash and debris using a backhoe.
During heavy rainfall, low lying areas in this town are flooded because it serves as a catch basin of floodwaters from its neighboring Batac City.
Following an ocular inspection at the flooded barangays where local officials witnessed the tons of garbage that clogged the creek, Mr. Acdal has appealed to all concerned residents to dispose their trash properly.
One of the concerned residents Lily Guieb said she is a witnessed how people carelessly throw their garbage everywhere and it may have contributed to flooding.
“It’s sad to note that there are heartless and irresponsible people who just throw their garbage that clogged our waterways,” she said citing that year in and year out, this has been a long problem of the community during the rainy season.
To date, the municipal government officials plan to request for funding for the rehabilitation and elevation of the bridge to prevent clogging during rainy days.