BBM leads launch of 'Oplan Kontra Baha' in Cebu

Local

PRESIDENT Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday, Nov. 21, led the launching of Oplan Kontra Baha: Metro Cebu Waterways Clearing and Cleaning Operations, a nine-month program aimed at preventing flooding during next year’s rainy season.

The initiative targets major rivers, creeks, and drainage systems across Metro Cebu.

Marcos visited Mahiga Creek in Mandaue City near the M. Logarta Bridge to observe dredging, waste removal, and the clearing of illegal structures that block water flow.

Mahiga Creek is part of the nearly 12-kilometer Subangdaku–Mahiga River system, a vital waterway that runs across Cebu City’s urban core and surrounding barangays.

The river frequently overflows during heavy rains due to significant silt buildup and accumulated garbage, especially near the Subangdaku Bridge.

Simultaneous cleanup operations are being conducted along the Butuanon and Subangdaku Rivers in Mandaue City; Arrabal/Kinalumsan, Guadalupe, and Kamputhaw Rivers in Cebu City; the Mananga River in Talisay City; and the Cotcot River in Liloan, as well as drainage points near the Mambaling Flyover and Cansaga Bridge in Consolacion.

The project involves dredging, de-clogging, and removal of obstructions to restore water flow and reduce flood risks.

“Ang pangako sa atin, one year. So, ang pangako sa akin, ‘pagka umulan ulit, hindi na magbabaha,” Marcos said, highlighting that the project will prevent flooding similar to past events.

He added that experts will identify locations for three to five sabo dams to control water flow and minimize debris during heavy rains.

The Department of Public Works and Highways leads the program, coordinating with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Social Welfare and Development, Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development, Department of the Interior and Local Government, National Housing Authority, and the Metropolitan Cebu Development and Coordinating Board.

Support offices include the Department of Health, Philippine Charity Sweepstakes Office, Philippine Amusement and Gaming Corporation, the Presidential Commission for the Urban Poor, Philippine Ports Authority, Philippine Coast Guard, Maritime Industry Authority, Navy engineers, Armed Forces of the Philippines reservists, Philippine National Police Mobile Force, PCG Auxiliary, and the Cebu provincial government.

Private sector partners include San Miguel Corporation, Metro Pacific Investments Corporation, Prime-Infra, Ayala Corporation, Aboitiz Group, and SM Corporation.

The initiative aims to clean eight priority waterways covering 161 kilometers of rivers, creeks, and esteros, as well as 212 kilometers of drainage systems, with work scheduled to finish by August next year.(MyTVCebu)