Image source: The Freeman, “This part of the national highway in Barangay Mambaling,” 2022. Accessed via https://www.philstar.com/the-freeman/cebu-news/2022/07/11/2194637/barangays-cebu-city-flood-control-projects-first
Cebu City Hall is taking proactive measures to prepare for the potential massive flooding that could hit the region in the coming months. With the rainy season fast approaching and the threat of severe weather events looming, Acting Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has mandated weekly meetings with the Task Force Gubat sa Baha and other concerned agencies to ensure a coordinated and effective response.
Understanding the Flooding Threat
Flooding is a recurring challenge for Cebu City, causing significant damage to infrastructure, property, and lives. The city’s mix of coastal areas, rivers, and creeks makes it particularly vulnerable to heavy rains and tropical storms. “Our goal is to mitigate the impacts of flooding and ensure the safety and well-being of our residents,” Garcia stated in a recent press briefing.
Strategic Measures and Task Forces
The Task Force Gubat sa Baha, dedicated to addressing flooding issues, leads Cebu City’s flood prevention efforts. Initiatives include regular clearing operations, infrastructure improvements, and public awareness campaigns. Recently, the task force conducted clearing operations at Mahiga Creek, a known flood-prone area. “We need the cooperation of everyone to keep our waterways clear of debris and illegal structures,” Garcia emphasized.
Infrastructure Enhancements
Cebu City focuses on infrastructure enhancements to improve flood resilience. Plans include constructing gabion dams in mountainous areas to stabilize soil and control water flow, reducing landslide and flood risks. “Gabion dams can significantly reduce the volume and speed of water flowing down from the mountains,” Garcia explained. Upgrades to drainage systems, including larger pipes and new channels, aim to prevent urban area flooding.
Community Engagement and Preparedness
The city government actively engages residents in flood prevention. Public information campaigns educate people on flood risks and protective measures. Regular clean-up drives and training for barangay leaders in flood response are crucial. “Community involvement is key to our flood management strategy,” Garcia noted.
Technology and Innovation
Cebu City leverages advanced weather forecasting systems and flood monitoring tools for real-time data and early warnings. The use of Geographic Information System (GIS) technology maps flood-prone areas and identifies critical infrastructure at risk, enhancing planning and targeted interventions.
Collaboration with National Agencies
National agencies support Cebu City Hall’s efforts. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) collaborates on large-scale infrastructure projects, while the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical, and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) provides up-to-date weather forecasts and climate data, ensuring informed flood response strategies.
A Call to Action
Acting Mayor Garcia calls on all residents to contribute to flood prevention and response. “We need the collective effort of everyone—government agencies, the private sector, and the community—to address the challenges of flooding. By working together, we can protect our city and ensure the safety of our people,” Garcia emphasized.
Cebu City’s comprehensive approach to flood management, including infrastructure improvements, community engagement, technological innovation, and collaboration with national agencies, demonstrates its commitment to safeguarding the city from flooding. As the rainy season approaches, proactive measures and collective efforts will be crucial in mitigating risks and ensuring the resilience of Cebu City and its residents.
Flooding during the rainy season in Cebu City is significantly worsened by improper waste disposal. Here’s how it happens:
- Clogged Drainage Systems: Around 70% of Cebu City’s drainage systems are clogged with trash. When these systems are blocked, rainwater has nowhere to go, leading to flooding during heavy downpours.
- Blocked Waterways: Informal settlers and accumulated garbage in rivers and creeks block the natural flow of water, causing it to overflow and flood adjacent areas. Mahiga Creek is a prime example, where waste and illegal structures lead to frequent flooding.
- Improper Disposal Practices: Many residents and businesses dispose of waste irresponsibly. This practice leads to the accumulation of garbage in drainage systems and waterways, further exacerbating the flooding problem. The combination of poor waste collection, lack of proper disposal facilities, and general neglect in waste management creates a perfect storm for flooding.
- Reduced Drainage Capacity: Accumulated waste reduces the capacity of drainage systems to handle large volumes of water, causing quicker and more severe flooding events. This issue is evident in many parts of Cebu City, including Colon Street, where improper waste disposal is a significant threat to effective flood management.
Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach to waste management, including stricter enforcement of waste disposal regulations, better waste collection services, and public awareness campaigns to educate residents on proper waste disposal practices.
WASTE PH’s Approach
WASTE PH is dedicated to improving waste management and reducing garbage in Cebu City. Their comprehensive approach includes various services and community initiatives aimed at sustainable waste disposal and environmental conservation.
- Community Engagement: WASTE PH actively involves local communities in waste reduction initiatives. They educate residents on proper waste segregation, recycling, and responsible disposal practices.
- Innovative Solutions: Utilizing modern technology and environmentally-friendly methods, WASTE PH ensures efficient waste collection and disposal.
- Sustainability: By promoting recycling and reusing materials, WASTE PH aims to minimize waste generation and its impact on the environment.
Services Offered
- Solid Waste Management:
- Collection & Disposal: Regular and one-time hauling of municipal and food waste.
- Recyclables Disposal: Scheduled collection of recyclable items.
- Liquid Waste Management:
- Septic Services: Siphoning, cleaning, and maintenance of septic tanks.
- Wastewater Treatment: Design, construction, and rehabilitation of treatment facilities.
- Hazardous Waste Treatment and Disposal:
- Safe Disposal: Partnering with accredited transporters and treaters for hazardous waste.
Waste PH is one of fast rising best waste management service provider in Cebu City also spans its service in Mandaue City, Lapu-Lapu City, Liloan, Cordova, Talisay, Consolacion, and Minglanilla. Our dynamic team of young and passionate professionals ensures the best service 24/7, from Monday to Sunday. We specialize in solid waste management, liquid waste management, and hazardous waste management, offering affordable prices for the collection and disposal of municipal waste, food waste, recyclable materials, and more. Our services also include septic tank siphoning, cleaning, porta-potty rentals, wastewater treatment, and treatment facility design and construction. Waste PH also provides comprehensive waste operation permitting services.