Coordinated flood-control strategy for city pushed

CEBU, Philippines - (CCDRRMC), has urged a well-coordinated flood-control strategy following the torrential rains that inundated the city Friday night.

In his assessment report, Tumulak described the widespread flooding as a stark reminder of the city’s vulnerability and the urgent need for both structural and systemic reforms.

He noted that while several upland barangays showed resilience—with drainage systems effectively channeling rainfall into rivers—the river’s limited capacity to absorb the surge worsened flooding downstream.

To address this, Tumulak strongly recommended dredging to increase the river’s carrying capacity, coupled with a sediment management plan to prevent rapid siltation and protect ecological flows.

His report calls for a comprehensive flood-management approach that integrates river widening, desilting, and culvert expansion with improved drainage operations, community involvement, and strict environmental enforcement.

Tumulak also underscored the importance of clear roles among agencies such as the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), environmental bodies, and local government units. He urged robust enforcement of environmental laws and closer collaboration with citizens, businesses, and grassroots organizations.

Other measures he outlined include systematically clearing canals, river margins, and outfalls; installing debris screens at drainage inlets and outlets; and implementing regular debris removal schedules alongside upstream waste management campaigns in flood-prone areas.

Beyond infrastructure, Tumulak emphasized strengthening early warning systems, evacuation protocols, and community education on waste disposal, maintenance schedules, and practical flood-risk reduction measures.

He further called for land-use reforms to restrict new developments in vulnerable zones, preserve conservation buffers along rivers, and promote equitable relocation where needed.

As Cebu City braces for more unpredictable weather, we must move from reactive disaster response to proactive, inclusive planning, Tumulak said. (CEBU NEWS)