The Cebu Provincial Government has convened the Metro Cebu Flood Control and Drainage System Implementation Task Force to develop a coordinated strategy in addressing flooding and improving flood management across Metro Cebu.

The task force held its meeting at the Capitol on August 5, bringing together local government units (LGUs), provincial officials, and representatives from national government agencies to streamline planning and implementation of priority flood control projects.

Created through Executive Order No. 74 issued by Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro in November last year, the task force was established in response to the growing impact of flooding, which has disrupted communities, affected livelihoods, and threatened public infrastructure.

Gov. Baricuatro, who chairs the task force, emphasized the need for immediate and collective action to address flood-related challenges.

“We cannot simply stand by. We need to take decisive action. Protecting our constituents, our homes, and our economy from climate-induced hazards is our primary responsibility,” Baricuatro said during the meeting.

Also present were Vice Governor Glenn Soco, who serves as vice chairperson of the task force; Provincial Board Members Stanley Caminero and Red Duterte; Capitol department heads led by Provincial Administrator Atty. Ace Durano; and representatives from national government agencies.

LGU clustering for flood solutions

During the meeting, members agreed to cluster Metro Cebu LGUs to allow each group to develop localized flood mitigation plans suited to their specific needs and conditions.

The proposed plans will then be submitted to the task force for review and approval to ensure coordinated implementation among concerned local governments.

Among the flood control measures being considered are revetment works, diversion channels, drainage main systems, drainage lateral improvements, flow control mechanisms, dams, retention basins and lagoons, recharge areas and infiltration beds, as well as rainwater harvesting and storage facilities.

The integrated approach aims to address flooding not only through individual projects but through a comprehensive system involving multiple LGUs and government agencies.

P8 billion committed for Cebu river dams

The national government has committed at least ₱8 billion for the construction of dams along Cebu’s major river systems, which are expected to help manage and slow down floodwaters during periods of intense rainfall.

The Metro Cebu Flood Control and Drainage System Implementation Task Force will continue working toward identifying priority projects and developing long-term solutions to improve the province’s resilience against climate-related hazards.

Through stronger coordination among government partners, the Cebu Provincial Government aims to protect communities, safeguard infrastructure, and build a more flood-resilient Metro Cebu.

(Capitol PIO, Photos by YJB and FE)