The recent onslaught of severe weather and geological events has starkly revealed critical weaknesses in Cebu's water infrastructure. In response, a major forum is set to convene, uniting local and international experts to forge a path toward a more water-secure future for the province.
Addressing the Water Paradox
The Water Secure PH Forum begins on November 27, 2025, organized by the Department of Science and Technology in Central Visayas (DOST 7). This crucial event is a collaborative effort with Hydronet Consultants Inc. and the Asian Institute of Technology Thailand, backed by support from the Global Water and Climate Adaptation Center.
Bryan Ybañez, the Provincial Science and Technology Director for DOST Cebu, highlighted the core issue the forum seeks to solve: the province's "paradox of water." This refers to the challenging situation where destructive flooding and acute water scarcity happen at the same time. The recent Severe Tropical Storm Tino, which hit on November 4, perfectly illustrated this problem. While intense rainfall caused flash floods, many areas simultaneously suffered from water scarcity due to damaged pipes and widespread power outages that crippled groundwater-dependent systems.
Tools and Training for Decision-Makers
The primary goal of the workshop is to equip key decision-makers from local government units, water providers, and academic institutions with practical tools and knowledge. A central focus will be on the Water Security Index (WaSeC) tool, a standardized methodology for assessing urban water security and pinpointing specific areas that need improvement.
Participants will learn how to use this tool to formulate actionable plans. These plans are designed to strengthen Cebu's resilience against the triple threats of climate change, water scarcity, and flooding. The municipalities participating in this critical training include Alegria, Argao, Malabuyoc, Pinamungajan, Samboan, and San Francisco in Cebu, alongside communities from Bohol.
Embracing Nature-Based Solutions
Beyond technical tools, the forum will champion sustainable, nature-based approaches to water management. Dr. Danilo Jaque of Hydronet Consultants Inc. stated that the event will introduce strategies that work with the environment.
These solutions include:
- Preserving and restoring wetlands
- Implementing sustainable watershed management practices
- Utilizing swales and lagoons to enhance water infiltration into the ground
These methods offer a multi-benefit approach: they help reduce the severity of downstream flooding, improve overall water quality, and support goals for sustainable urban development. By adopting these strategies, Cebu can build a more robust and environmentally sound water system for the future.
