𝐁𝐁𝐌 𝐋𝐀𝐔𝐍𝐂𝐇𝐄𝐒 𝐂𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐍𝐔𝐏 𝐃𝐑𝐈𝐕𝐄 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐌𝐄𝐓𝐑𝐎 𝐂𝐄𝐁𝐔 𝐖𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐑𝐖𝐀𝐘𝐒
Gov. Pamela Baricuatro joined President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. in launching the “Oplan Kontra Baha: Metro Cebu Waterways Clearing and Cleaning Operations” on November 21, 2025 at Mahiga Creek near the M. Logarta Bridge between Mandaue and Cebu cities.
Initially implemented in Metro Manila, the initiative brings together national government agencies, local government units (LGUs), and private partners to remove garbage and debris from rivers, creeks, and drainage systems long clogged by silt and waste, helping to prevent severe flooding during heavy rains.
Also present during the ceremony were Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, Mandaue City Mayor Jonkie Ouano, and Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Vince Dizon.
The President announced that the clearing operations will continue for nine months. A total of 287 heavy equipment units, along with personnel to operate them, have been deployed from the DPWH, LGUs, and the private sector.
President Marcos Jr. observed ongoing works in Mahiga Creek, including dredging, waste removal, removal of illegal structures, and other activities, are meant to restore natural water flow and reduce flooding risks.
Mahiga Creek forms part of the nearly 12-kilometer Subangdaku–Mahiga River system, a major waterway cutting across urban Cebu City and surrounding barangays.
The river often overflows during heavy rains due to silt buildup and accumulated waste, especially around the Subangdaku Bridge.
Led by DPWH Region 7, simultaneous clearing and cleaning operations are underway in other major waterways including Butuanon River (Mandaue City), Subangdaku River (Mandaue City), Kinalumsan River and Mambaling Flyover (Cebu City), Guadalupe River (Cebu City), Mananga River (Talisay City), Cotcot River (Liloan), and Cansaga Bridge area (Consolacion).
Construction of Dams
The President also announced the construction of three to five Sabo dams in Cebu to help control river flow during flash floods. These dams, commonly built in mountainous or riverine areas, trap sediment, debris, and boulders, helping reduce erosion, slow water flow, and protect downstream communities and infrastructure. | CAPITOL PIO
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