To combat floods: City steps up declogging operations

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Government alongside the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is intensifying its drainage de-clogging operations as part of a wider flood-mitigation program to safeguard communities from recurring flood risks.

In a recent courtesy meeting at the Mayor’s Conference Room, officials highlighted the need for coordinated action in maintaining the city’s drainage networks.

They pointed out that improper waste disposal and accumulated garbage continue to obstruct waterways, raising the risk of flooding during heavy rains and calamities.

Mayor Nestor Archival emphasized that waste management is central to flood prevention.

“Kung limpyo ang atong drainage system, mas dali nato malikayan ang pagbaha. Apan dili lang kini trabaho sa gobyerno, kinahanglan nato ang kooperasyon sa katawhan,” Archival said.

He further appealed to residents to support the city’s campaign on responsible waste disposal.

“Mihangyo ko kaninyo nga mag-segregate g’yud ta kay kinahanglan magtinabangay ta para ma-improve ang serbisyo sa atong siyudad.”

Late last month, the city also turned over several newly-completed road concreting projects with drainage systems in Sitio Pailob and Sitio Alcantara in Barangay Sambag I, Jasmin Street in Barangay Capitol Site, and Sitio Acacia in Barangay Lorega-San Miguel.

These projects, worth millions of pesos, are expected to improve accessibility, safety, and daily mobility for residents.

Mayor Archival, who led the ceremonial turnover together with officials from the Department of Engineering and Public Works and barangay leaders, stressed the importance of community cooperation in preserving the projects.

“Kini nga mga proyekto dili lang kalsada, kundili agianan sa mas hapsay ug mas luwas nga kinabuhi sa atong mga residente. Ampingan nato kini ug gamiton sa hustong paagi,” he said.

Chief of Staff Kenneth Siasar also reminded residents to maintain the newly-completed roads.

“Kinahanglang walay maglabay og basura sa kilid-kilid ug walay mag-illegal parking tungod kay kini gihatag na alang sa katawhan sa barangay,” he noted.

The ceremonies concluded with ribbon cuttings and the signing of official documents, symbolizing the formal acceptance of the projects by the beneficiary barangays. Mayor Archival reiterated that these initiatives form part of the city’s continuing campaign to strengthen infrastructure, enhance public safety, and promote environmental responsibility. — (FREEMAN)