DPWH 7 to Implement 5 Major Flood Control Projects in Mandaue, Cebu Cities

The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) 7 will implement five major flood control projects in some creeks or rivers in the cities of Cebu and Mandaue, an official said.

DPWH 7 Director Ador Canlas said these include one for Tipolo River in Mandaue, which has been included in the DPWH budget for 2016 under the General Appropriations Act.

Preliminary detailed engineering works on these projects are ongoing, Canlas said.

These projects may be completed either within this year or in 2017, depending on how fast the local governments can sort out road right-of-way issues.

“Definitely, with the completion of these projects, the flooding problems in Cebu City and Mandaue City will be reduced significantly, particularly within the area of influence of the said projects,” Canlas said.

Canlas said its United Project Management Office-Flood Control Management Cluster (UPMO-FCMC) is also conducting a feasibility study on drainage and flood control projects in Metro Cebu.

The cities of Cebu, Mandaue and Talisay were swamped with floods Friday afternoon after a heavy downpour.

Major streets turned into instant lakes and rivers, with some areas having waist-deep waters.

Hundreds of commuters spent three hours or more on the road Friday night in Metro Cebu, while floods stalled vehicles and slowed down the flow of traffic until as late as 11 p.m.

Canlas said findings from the flood that hit Metro Cebu Friday night will be woven into the study, which will spell out measures to address flooding. (PNA) PGL/EB/EBP