President Bongbong Marcos launched the Oplan Kontra Baha: Metro Cebu Waterways Clearing and Cleaning Operations at Mahiga Creek, located between Cebu City and Mandaue City. This initiative is designed to tackle recurring flooding issues by clearing clogged waterways and improving drainage systems in Cebu.
The President detailed the scope of the project, which involves dredging and clearing major rivers, creeks, and drainage systems, including Mahiga Creek, Butuanon River, and Subangdaku River.
These operations are intended to clear heavy siltation and accumulated waste that have obstructed water flow, contributing to severe flooding during heavy rains. Marcos set a clear timeline: nine months of work to prepare for the next rainy season, with the goal of seeing significant improvements by next year.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve disaster preparedness and strengthen flood resilience across the country. Marcos emphasized the need for close cooperation between national agencies, local governments, and private companies.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) will oversee the project, with support from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), among others.
In addition to clearing waterways, Marcos proposed the construction of sabo dams—small upland structures to control water flow and reduce flooding. These dams will be built in the Mananga, Butuanon, and Cotcot rivers. However, Marcos emphasized that engineering studies are necessary before moving forward with the dam projects.
The private sector is also involved in the initiative, with companies like San Miguel Corporation and Ayala Corporation offering support. Heavy equipment from both national agencies and local governments will be used in the cleanup efforts, which will continue until August 2026.
During the launch, Marcos reiterated the importance of collaboration between all involved parties to ensure the success of the program. He encouraged residents to closely monitor the progress of the project and assured them that the government would deliver tangible results within a year.
