The Cebu Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) is shifting its strategy from discussion to tangible projects in the fight against flooding. The business group has taken a significant step by installing a modern rainwater catchment system at its headquarters, signaling a proactive move to safeguard Cebu's economic vitality from the increasing threat of climate-related disruptions.
From Advocacy to Concrete Action
Unveiled on December 22, 2025, the new facility is situated outside the CCCI building in the North Reclamation Area. This project is a core component of the chamber's broader Flood Hero Cebu Movement, an initiative launched in September that champions a collaborative, multi-sector strategy to reduce flood risks that endanger businesses, daily livelihoods, and city infrastructure.
CCCI president Jay Y. Yuvallos emphasized the symbolic and practical importance of the installation. He stated that it represents a clear declaration that flooding directly damages the local economy, affects residents, and threatens the city's future prospects, making immediate action essential.
German Technology for Cebu's Water Woes
The chamber selected a specific solution for its project: the EcoBloc stormwater management system. This German-engineered technology is designed to capture rainwater efficiently, which helps replenish groundwater supplies, minimizes surface flooding, and stores water for later use in irrigation or industrial processes.
According to CCCI vice president for Business Development Bernard Sia, the system offers practical advantages for wider adoption. The installation cost is between P30,000 and P40,000. Furthermore, it can be set up as much as 80 percent faster than traditional methods and needs only minimal excavation work, reducing installation hassle and cost.
Spurring Broader Public and Private Collaboration
The installation event drew the attention of local government officials, including Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival. Mayor Archival expressed the city's interest in potentially deploying similar catchment systems across various barangays to manage stormwater on a larger scale.
Business leaders present viewed the initiative as a powerful example of how private-sector innovation and investment can effectively complement public-sector efforts. They highlighted that flooding poses a growing and direct risk to Cebu's economic stability and competitiveness as a prime destination for business and investment. The Flood Hero Cebu Movement ultimately promotes waterway protection and sustainable urban practices as non-negotiable foundations for the city's continued growth.
