President Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr. personally spearheaded a major environmental initiative in Cebu on Friday, launching a comprehensive waterways clearing and cleaning operation as part of the government's solution to the province's persistent flooding problems.
Oplan Kontra Baha: A Presidential Priority
The program, officially named Oplan Kontra Baha: Metro Cebu Waterways Clearing and Cleaning Operations, was inaugurated by the President at Mahiga Creek near M. Logarta Bridge, which connects Mandaue and Cebu cities. This marks the expansion of a flood mitigation program initially implemented in Greater Metro Manila to address similar challenges in the Visayas region.
Under this ambitious initiative, various water channels including rivers, tributaries, esteros, and drainage systems will be cleared of accumulated garbage and water hyacinths that obstruct water flow. The operation represents a collaborative effort between national government agencies, local government units, and the private sector, demonstrating a unified approach to environmental management.
Addressing Recent Tragedy and Neglect
President Marcos emphasized that this initiative directly addresses Cebu's flooding crisis, which turned deadly when Typhoon Tino struck on November 4. The powerful storm triggered devastating floods that claimed numerous lives, with many victims still missing weeks after the disaster.
The President expressed concern that his personal involvement was necessary to jumpstart the cleanup effort. When he questioned local officials about their last comprehensive waterways clearing operation, none could recall when such activity had previously been conducted, highlighting systemic neglect in flood prevention maintenance.
The administration also plans to scrutinize commercial establishments that have encroached upon and narrowed natural water passages. Investigation reveals that certain sections of Cebu City's rivers and creeks have significantly constricted due to concrete construction and deliberate covering of water channels.
Comprehensive Flood Mitigation Strategy
While immediate clearing operations proceed, experts are being tasked with developing long-term projects to prevent a recurrence of the catastrophic November 4 flooding. The Friday cleanup simultaneously targeted multiple major waterways across Metro Cebu, including:
- Butuanon River in Mandaue City
- Guadalupe River and Kinalumsan River in Cebu City
- Mananga River in Talisay City
- Cotcot River flowing through Liloan and Compostela towns
- Cansaga River in Consolacion
This multi-pronged approach represents the government's commitment to both immediate action and sustainable solutions for Cebu's flooding challenges, ensuring communities receive protection from future climate-related disasters.
