In Barangay Buhisan, Over 100 houses prone to floods, landslides

CEBU, Philippines - More than a hundred houses in Barangay Buhisan are within landslide and flood prone areas, a study conducted by Mines and Geosciences Bureau of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources revealed.

The Geohazards Mapping and Assessment Team (GMAT) composed of state geologists identified Sitio Sandayong as highly and critically susceptible to landslide along with Sitio Dam which is classified as susceptible to floods.

Moreover, the team recommended for the relocation of these affected houses stressing the observance of proper easement from the river as houses have been constructed within the three-meter easement zone.

Settlers along the landslide prone areas were also instructed to be more watchful especially during rainy season.

The state geologists said the affected residents must observe and/or monitor the presence of mass movement (landslides, tension cracks) as well as saturated ground or seeps and sunken or displaced road surfaces and report to MGB or barangay officials.

Settlers along the flood prone areas were likewise instructed to monitor rapid increase and decrease in creek, river water levels possibly accompanied by increased turbidity.

More or less 150 houses in Sitio Dam are considered prone to flashfloods with floodwaters reaching not more than .5 meters within two hours of downpour.

With a number of these houses lying along the Buhisan riverbank, soil erosion is also likely to occur, the report added.

Eight houses, six at the slope and two on a ridge, in Sitio Sandayong were listed by MGB to be facing threats of landslide.

The GMAT noted escarpment on the slope and rocks at foot slope and cited the January 11, 2011 rock fall or coarse debris slide in the area.

The team, composed of DENR 7 geologists Maria Elena Lupo, Josephine Aleta and Jessica Lucero, conducted flood and landslide hazard assessment on September 20, 2012. Its recommendation was forwarded to Buhisan barangay captain Ramil Rago February 19 this year.

Even before the ringing of “bagting” (bell) warning system was agreed between barangay and city officials following the recent threats of landslide and dam water overflow, the same report has recommended for the development of early warning system.

Cebu City Councilor Dave Tumulak, designated representative of Mayor Michael Rama at the Reduce Danger Zones (ReDZ) project, earlier intended to meet with both DENR and Metro Cebu Water District which manages the Buhisan Dam to discuss precautionary measures as well as clarify the discovery of privately titled lots along the Buhisan River which is supposedly a property of the state. — (FREEMAN)