P1.4M for Mahiga easement delineation

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Government will spend P1.4 million to conduct a two-month easement zone delineation and demarcation at the Mahiga Creek.

Mayor Michael Rama was authorized by the City Council yesterday to enter into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) regional executive director Maximo Dichoso for the purpose.

DENR senior research specialist Jose Cleo Cary Colis explained that the project is precursor to the relocation of people and demolition of structures to minimize, if not to totally avoid, risks and disaster associated with flooding.

Councilor Eduardo Rama said the DENR-7 officials agreed to assist the Cebu City Government by deploying technical personnel for the river easement zone delineation and demarcation.

According to Cebu City Legal Officer Joseph Bernaldez, there is no legal impediment that would prevent the mayor from signing the agreement.

To accomplish the project, DENR officials advised the City to allocate funds to ensure that the easement zone of all rivers within the city’s jurisdiction can be identified.

The DENR will have a training module for the City and will provide counterpart manpower and technical assistance. The DENR will conduct of capability building and monitor the implementation of the project.

The project is in line with Rama’s vision of clearing the three-meter easement zone of all creeks in the city. Those who will be displaced would be given relocation sites. — (FREEMAN)