After the "Ormoc Tragedy of 1991" that caused the loss of many human lives and many more affected, causing nearly 12 billion U.S dollars in damages. A master plan and feasibility study were formulated to prevent further Typhoon and Flood related disasters. In 1998, the project was implemented to improve the two rivers and to construct three slit dams based on the detailed design. The steel slit dam, which prevents the drift of timber and other debris, was the first of its type in the Philippines. Construction was completed in August 2001. Based on the recommended guidelines, maintenance works are being carried out by the Flood Mitigation Committee, which consists of the engineers of the city and DPWH, and people living along the river.