The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has proposed a P7-billion "4-in-1" dam and reservoir project near the Mananga, Bulacao, Guadalupe, Butuanon, Cotcot, Danao, and Lusaran rivers in Cebu. This long-term initiative aims to provide lasting solutions to the province's recurring problems of flooding and water scarcity.
Decades of Water Woes
For decades, Metro Cebu's streets have suffered from a bitter experience with water—either too much or too little. Even light rain causes flooding, while during summer or drought, water from faucets trickles and farmlands dry up. These issues are expected to be resolved by this major infrastructure project, which offers a sustainable approach to ensure the safety of every Cebuano, especially in the face of climate change.
Beyond Band-Aid Solutions
Previously, flood management relied on traditional dikes and canal cleaning—temporary band-aid solutions. The construction of dams from the Mananga to Lusaran rivers is seen as a comprehensive fix to Cebu's water problems.
Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro supports the project, recognizing the province's need for large water reservoirs, especially during droughts when clouds suck moisture from the ground. When clouds become heavy with absorbed water, intense rainfall can cause severe flooding. Dams are crucial as they help capture rainwater and control its flow, preventing both floods and water shortages.
Long-Term Vision
If realized, the DPWH project is expected to take about 10 years to complete. It is hoped that this initiative will not become a ghost project, unlike previous flood control projects in various parts of the country.
