Cebu Governor Gwendolyn Garcia has launched a fierce demand for justice and accountability following the deadly floods that submerged various parts of the province, questioning the effectiveness of the ₱2.6 billion flood control projects implemented by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH).
The devastating floods, which resulted in multiple fatalities and widespread destruction, have exposed what the governor calls "serious questions" about the massive infrastructure investments meant to protect Cebu communities from such disasters.
Massive Investment, Questionable Results
Governor Garcia revealed that between 2015 and 2023, the national government allocated a staggering ₱2.6 billion for flood control structures throughout Cebu Province. Despite this enormous expenditure, multiple areas including Minglanilla, Naga, San Fernando, and Carcar City experienced severe flooding that claimed lives and destroyed property.
"We need to know what happened to that ₱2.6 billion," Governor Garcia stated during her regular online program, Ingna'ng Governor. "We deserve answers. The people of Cebu deserve to know why these flood control projects failed to prevent this tragedy."
Formal Demand for Investigation
The provincial government has taken official action, submitting a formal request to the DPWH 7 office demanding:
- Complete documentation of all flood control projects
- Detailed technical specifications and implementation records
- Project locations and coverage areas
- Contractor information and project timelines
Governor Garcia emphasized the urgency of the matter, noting that the recent disaster resulted in heartbreaking losses for Cebuano families and communities.
Human Cost of Infrastructure Failure
The flooding's impact has been severe and personal. In Minglanilla alone, the disaster claimed three lives, including a 2-year-old child and two senior citizens. The tragedy has amplified calls for transparency and accountability in how public funds for infrastructure are utilized.
"When we invest billions in flood control, we expect protection, not tragedy," Governor Garcia asserted. "The people of Cebu need to be assured that their tax money is being used effectively to save lives, not being wasted on ineffective solutions."
Moving Forward: Demanding Answers
As recovery efforts continue across affected municipalities, the provincial government remains determined to uncover the truth behind the flood control projects' apparent failure. The investigation seeks to ensure that future infrastructure investments genuinely protect Cebu communities from natural disasters.
The governor's strong stance has resonated with many Cebuanos affected by the flooding, who join in demanding accountability for the projects that were supposed to keep them safe.
