The Movement for a Livable Cebu (MLC) has presented an urgent petition for immediate floodwater management action during a high-level meeting with Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro and provincial officials. This initiative forms part of ongoing efforts to develop long-term, science-based solutions to Cebu's persistent flooding problems.
Urgent Call for Flood Management Reform
According to a statement released from the Cebu Province Public Information page on Thursday, November 13, 2025, the MLC presentation highlighted that the severe flooding on November 4 resulted from inadequate infrastructure planning. The group emphasized that the inundation of riverside communities directly resulted from interference with crucial water pathways and flood-control structures that were both ineffective and tainted by corruption.
The MLC petition outlines six critical actions that demand immediate implementation: establishment of a Cebu Floodwater Management Office, declaration of no-build zones in affected areas, relocation of vulnerable families, removal of faulty flood-control structures, a moratorium on riverbed quarrying, and comprehensive watershed rehabilitation.
Government Support and Technical Strategies
Governor Baricuatro expressed full support for the group's proposals, acknowledging that Cebu requires greater accountability, evidence-based policies, and cooperation among local government units to prevent another tragedy. During the meeting, technical and long-term mitigation strategies were refined that Governor Baricuatro will present at an upcoming meeting in Manila with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon.
Engineer Fortunato "Jun" Sanchez of Mega Cebu revived the 2017 Mega Cebu Master Plan, which recommends constructing nine major dams from Carcar City to Danao City. This ambitious infrastructure project aims to address both flooding issues and water scarcity problems simultaneously.
Moving Forward with Dam Projects
Provincial Administrator Atty. Ace Durano revealed that President Marcos has already directed Secretary Dizon to update feasibility studies and proceed with dam construction in Cebu. Meeting participants agreed to seek endorsements through the Regional Development Council (RDC), which Governor Baricuatro chairs, prioritizing three specific dam projects on the Mananga, Lusaran, and Butuanon Rivers.
The coordinated response represents a significant step toward comprehensive flood management in Cebu province, combining immediate action with long-term strategic planning to protect communities from future flooding disasters.
