Geomorphic Evolution of Iloilo River and its Floodplain

The channel of Iloilo River curves back on itself in a series of broad hairpin bends and
such bends are called meanders. Both erosion and deposition are involved in the
formation of a meander. First, some obstruction swings the current of a stream against
one of the banks, and the current is deflected over to the opposite bank. Next, erosion
takes place on the outside of each bend, where the turbulence is greatest. The material
detached from the banks is then moved downstream, there to be deposited in zones of
decreased turbulence – either along the center of the channel or on the inside of the
next bend. As the river swings from side to side, the meander continues to grow by
erosion on the outside of the bends and by deposition on the inside. The subject
property is underlained by sediments deposited on the inside of the bends of Iloilo
River. This deposition on the inside leaves behind a series of low ridges and troughs,
collectively known as point bars. Swamps often form in the troughs (basins) and during
flood time the river may develop an alternate channel through one of the troughs.
(Reference: Physical Geology by Judson and Kauffman, 8th Edition, Prentice hall
Inc. 1990