Residents of Guadalupe Heights Village in Barangay Guadalupe, Cebu City, are appealing to the City Government to construct a larger culvert and enhance the drainage system after floodwaters reached up to one meter during heavy rains, submerging parts of the subdivision.
Flooding Reaches Critical Levels
William Medici, president of the Guadalupe Heights Village Homeowners Association, reported that Thursday morning's rainfall caused water levels to rise to one meter, forcing him to monitor the situation closely. Some homes experienced flooding up to their windows, and the main entrance became impassable, compelling residents to use an alternative gate.
Rainy Season Officially Begins
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa) declared the start of the rainy season in western Luzon and the Visayas on June 4. Patrick Climaco of Pagasa Visayas recorded 6.4 millimeters of rain at the Mactan Station, equivalent to 6.4 liters per square meter—roughly 1.6 million gallons of water, or nearly three Olympic-sized swimming pools. The rain was attributed to localized thunderstorms.
Long-Standing Drainage Issues
Medici emphasized that the subdivision's existing drainage system, designed for previous conditions, can no longer handle increased runoff from uphill areas like Buena Hills. He noted that flooding has persisted for 21 years, even before recent developments. After Typhoon Tino in November 2025 inundated homes, Medici raised the issue with the City Government. In February or March, personnel from the City Planning Office, Engineering Office, and Assessor's Office conducted an on-site survey and drone mapping. However, as of June 11, no findings or concrete flood mitigation plan have been shared.
Proposed Solutions
Medici proposed installing a larger culvert near Guadalajara Street, extending behind the Regency Hotel area and connecting to the existing drainage network toward Quijada Street. He also recommended higher-capacity pumps and impounding areas to hold excess water. The subdivision's location acts as a natural catch basin for runoff from higher elevations, exacerbating the problem.
Despite public concern, Medici does not blame nearby developments like Monterrazas de Cebu, acknowledging that climate change is a major factor. He noted that Monterrazas has its own drainage measures, including canals, water catchment facilities, and pumps, and has helped clear clogged canals. Garbage carried by floodwaters from outside the subdivision remains a significant issue, with waste often clogging drainage canals.
As the rainy season begins, the subdivision has assigned personnel to clear garbage from canals and stored fuel for generators. Medici stressed that while existing pumps help, they are only mitigation measures, not a permanent solution. Mayor Nestor Archival had not responded to requests for comment as of press time.
