The flood control scandal has reportedly cost the government around one trillion pesos. The tragedy is that during the flooding in Cebu, many lives were lost. Ghost flood control projects remain, and a politician's promise to create rivers where there are none has not been fulfilled.
Now, the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has proposed P7 billion worth of 4-in-1 projects for major rivers in Cebu Province. Called 4-in-1 because they aim to address flooding, provide drinking water, irrigation, and electricity.
DPWH 7 Director Simon Arias stated that dams and dikes will be built in seven major rivers in Cebu: Mananga in Talisay, Bulacao and Guadalupe in Cebu City, Butuanon in Mandaue, Cotcot stretching to Liloan and Compostela, Danao, and Lusaran.
Arias said completion of these projects will take about 10 years due to their scale. They have requested P1 billion from the national government for each river to start the projects. If funds are available, construction could begin in early 2027.
However, feasibility studies will be conducted first to ensure that the sites are safe and effective. It must also be checked whether these projects will end up like others that have dams but no water.
A super El Nino is expected this year, with a long dry season and drought commonly experienced in Cebu Province, affecting drinking water supply and irrigation for farms.
There is concern that funding for these projects may be delayed due to the corruption experienced in flood control projects. Lawmakers investigating the issue have fallen silent because almost everyone is involved. They are currently focused on the impeachment of the vice president.
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro supports the DPWH plan, as Cebu has long faced water shortage problems during the dry season. The Metro Cebu Water District is in great need of new water sources.
Thus, water conservation is essential, according to MCWD. During the last drought, a male employer was forced to bathe with their maid to save water.
