‘De-silt waterways for storm’

CEBU, Philippines - The Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is asking the Department of Public Works and Highways and the barangay officials to de-silt water drainage channels and other waterways in preparation for in an incoming storm.

The country’s weather bureau said a cyclone that is approaching from the east may intensify into a tropical storm and could enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility Tuesday or Wednesday next week.

Once it does, it would be named tropical storm Betty (international name Bavi).

City Councilor David Tumulak, CCDRRMC chairman, said DPWH has to initiate the de-silting of public sewer lines to remove and dispose silts and sediments clogging them, especially in areas near the agency’s project sites.

The barangays, he said, are advised to do the same as well.

“Mintras init pa, limpyohon nato ang drainage ug uban pang awasan sa tubig aron kun mokusog ang uwan dili ma-clog ang waterways ug dili magbaha,” he said.

He said he also asked the drainage section of the city’s Department of Engineering and Public Works drainage to speed up its own de-silting of the urban areas of the city.

It has become a usual occurrence in Cebu City, especially at the downtown area, that a light downpour would already cause flooding of city streets, impeding traffic flow and inconveniencing both pedestrians and motorists.

Tumulak said their disaster-response equipment and vehicles are already pre-positioned in strategic areas of the city.

The Cebu Contractors Association has also signified willingness to provide the needed equipment.

Tumulak, though, said City Hall may experience medicine shortage if its disaster response supply is not be replenished. He said at least P200,000 is needed to augment existing supplies.

“Worse come to worst the city is already prepared. But, everyone should be extra-vigilant and always pray for everybody’s safety,” he said.

The city will hold a disaster council meeting on Monday to further discuss disaster-preparedness measures. — Kristine B. Quintas/RHM (FREEMAN)