CEBU, Philippines — Instead of imposing drastic measures like filing charges in court, the Cebu City government has decided to work with owners of structures that are obstructing waterways in the city.
Mayor Edgardo Labella said they have decided to let the owners fix the problem. No deadline is imposed.
“They were authorized, presumed to be legal, but since it has blocked some waterways, we suggested to work together than do drastic legal actions,” Labella said following a dialogue with representatives of close to 90 structures.
“So far, no resistance. They manifested their commitment,” Labella said, adding, “We are giving them the chance to work with us.”
Based on initial reports, at least 83 establishments, houses, and other building structures are obstructing major waterways like the river in Barangays Lahug and Kamputhaw, and the creek in Barangays Tejero and Tinago.
Labella said engineering interventions will have to be made to solve the problem together with the Department of Public Works and Highways, city engineering department, city legal office, and other agencies through an ad hoc community and technical working group.
The city government came to check on the structures following massive flooding last October 13 that claimed the lives of three individuals in different areas.
Environment Secretary Roy Cimatu who was in the city recently also checked on some waterways and promised to offer help.
Based on the city’s initial investigation, the structures that are obstructing waterways, most of which are encroaching the three-meter easement along the city’s rivers and creeks, were built mostly in the 70’s to 90’s and have permits from DPWH.
Labella appealed to building owners to instill corporate social responsibility and sense of civic duty in their operations.
“Give back to the people of Cebu City. We have to work together, the people and the government. Find a solution to mitigate and solve flooding problem,” Labella said. — JMO (FREEMAN)