Cebu City Council Greenlights P6.7 Million Flood Control Initiative for Barangay Inayawan
In a decisive move to combat persistent flooding, the Cebu City Council has approved a P6.7 million allocation for a critical slope protection project in Barangay Inayawan. This long-delayed initiative aims to reinforce damaged riverbanks along the Bulacao River, significantly reducing flood risks for riverside communities that have endured years of neglect and natural disasters.
Addressing Urgent Risks from Past Typhoons
The funding, charged to the 2026 Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund, follows a recommendation from the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, adopted on Tuesday, March 17, 2026. A recent risk assessment by the Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) revealed that the riprap at Whiteroad, Barangay Inayawan, sustained severe damage during Typhoon Odette in December 2021 and further weakened during Typhoon Tino in November 2025. Located between the former Bethlehem School and RMI Cockpit Arena, this infrastructure is crucial for riverbank stability.
During inspections on February 13, the CCDRRMO documented alarming defects, including cracks, dislodged stones, and partial structural collapse near Sitio Riverside. These issues pose a direct threat to the stability of the riverbank and the safety of nearby homes, exacerbating the vulnerability of residents to future flooding events.
Community Appeals and Recurring Flooding Issues
Barangay officials have reported recurring flooding in several sitios, such as Tierra Dulce, Malipayon, and Renaissance, highlighting the urgent need for intervention. In an October 16, 2025 request to City Hall, Barangay Captain Kirk Bryan Repollo detailed how floodwaters reach waist-deep levels during heavy rains, endangering residents' safety and health. Repollo emphasized the historical neglect of the area, stating, "I have been requesting from the past administrations for the rehabilitation of the said area, however the same had been unheeded." He urged Mayor Nestor Archival to supply boulders and cement for the riprap's rehabilitation, a plea that has now been addressed with this new funding.
Implementation and Legal Framework
The Department of Engineering and Public Works will oversee the project, which involves constructing slope protection to stabilize the riverbank and prevent further erosion. This initiative is authorized under Republic Act 10121, which permits local disaster funds to finance mitigation and rehabilitation projects aimed at reducing vulnerabilities and protecting communities from natural hazards. By curbing flood risks and preventing structural deterioration along the river, the project represents a proactive step toward enhancing community resilience and safeguarding public welfare in the face of climate-related challenges.
