Bacolod City Launches Aggressive Flood Control Initiative with Major River Desilting
In a decisive move to bolster the city's flood defenses, Bacolod City Mayor Greg Gasataya has issued a directive for the City Engineer's Office (CEO) to augment the ongoing desilting operations conducted by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) at the Mandalagan River. This strategic reinforcement aims to enhance flood mitigation efforts across the urban landscape, addressing critical concerns that have escalated over recent years.
Deployment of Heavy Equipment and Financial Allocation
To execute this initiative effectively, Mayor Gasataya confirmed the deployment of an amphibious excavator at the river mouth in Barangay 1. Additionally, a newly acquired long-arm crawler excavator will commence separate desilting activities along Lacson Street, near the Rolling Hills area. The primary objective is to rehabilitate the river system and prevent backflow, which exacerbates flooding in adjacent barangays during heavy rainfall.
The mayor emphasized the necessity of continuous river clearing, noting that the last significant desilting operation prior to these efforts occurred in 2014. "The clearing of our riverways should be continuous. After so many years, the river has already become heavily silted," Gasataya stated, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
In a bid to optimize resources, the city has allocated P45.4 million for the purchase of essential heavy equipment, including a crawler excavator, a six-wheeler dump truck, and another amphibious excavator. Gasataya stressed the importance of acquiring these assets outright rather than renting, to maximize funds dedicated to long-term flood mitigation strategies.
Hydrographic Survey Findings and Coordinated Efforts
A hydrographic survey conducted by the CEO in 2025 revealed alarming data: sedimentation has reduced the depth of the Mandalagan River mouth to approximately one meter. This finding underscores the critical need for immediate intervention. From October to December 2025, DPWH efforts resulted in the removal of around 2,120 tons of silt from the river, demonstrating the scale of the challenge.
Mayor Gasataya has ordered simultaneous operations, ensuring close coordination with DPWH's clearing activities in Mambuloc Creek. Furthermore, the Bacolod Housing Authority is conducting surveys to identify informal settler families potentially affected by the extensive desilting operations, reflecting a holistic approach to community impact.
Expansion of Flood Control Measures and Infrastructure
Beyond desilting, Gasataya announced plans to install trash traps in seven key waterways across Bacolod City. The Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (Benro) has identified priority locations, including Maupay Creek in Barangay 13, Banago Creek near Ceres North Terminal, and three sites along Lupit River. "We are pushing for the enforcement of the barangay to help discipline our people. We are also reviewing appropriate cases to be filed against those who continue to dump garbage in waterways," the mayor asserted, addressing pollution at its source.
Concurrently, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (DRRMO) and the City Planning and Development Office (CPDO) are engaged in repainting and installing flood warning level markers, alongside desilting operations in various waterways. These multifaceted efforts aim to create a comprehensive flood management system.
Flood Assessment Findings and Community Impact
Initial assessments in Barangays 1, 2, 5, 9, and 10 along the Mandalagan River and Mambuloc Creek have uncovered several pressing concerns. Key issues include damaged river walls causing overflow in Barangay 5, significant siltation near Rolling Hills, high tide conditions worsening flooding, and illegal structures obstructing riverbanks. In Barangay 9, drainage-related flooding and clogged systems are prevalent, while Barangay 10 faces challenges such as overflow of Mambuloc River and inadequate drainage in the Bredco area.
Dr. Maria Laarni Pornan, head of the City DRRMO, emphasized the centrality of flood mitigation to the city's development planning. "Without these flood control measures, flooding could worsen. As the city develops, it is crucial to plan carefully against flood risks," Pornan remarked, highlighting the long-term vision.
Future Projects and Climate Change Considerations
Looking ahead, Mayor Gasataya highlighted the opening of a diversion channel in the Reclamation Area as a pivotal project to reduce flooding. This channel will provide an additional outlet for local drainage systems, facilitating quicker water flow and accelerated runoff. "Connecting the drainage system to this diversion channel will allow water to flow more quickly and speed up runoff," he explained, outlining the engineering solution.
As climate change continues to impact highly urbanized areas like Bacolod City, local officials have underscored that long-term engineering solutions and sustained flood mitigation efforts remain a top priority. Protecting flood-prone communities through proactive measures is essential for the city's resilience and future growth, ensuring safety and stability in the face of environmental challenges.
