Dizon calls for immediate rehab of Mananga River

Local

MUD, silt, and encroaching houses have narrowed the Mananga River to less than half its original width, raising alarm as the rainy season approaches.

Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Sec. Vince Dizon on Tuesday, Jan. 27, inspected the river and called for the immediate acceleration of rehabilitation works.

Dizon, joined by Talisay City Mayor Gerald Anthony “Samsam” Gullas, Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano, and Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, emphasized the urgency of widening and deepening river channels to improve water flow and reduce flooding risks in nearby communities.

“Before the rainy season, before the next big typhoons hit, we have to already have something on the ground,” he said.

During the inspection, officials focused on short-term flood mitigation measures under Oplan Kontra Baha, including dredging and desilting operations in downstream areas and river mouths where silt buildup restricts water flow.

The mouth of the Mananga River in Barangay Dumlog has already been cleared, and similar efforts are planned upstream to ensure water moves freely toward the sea.

River channels have become dangerously narrow due to years of encroachment and sediment buildup.

Authorities aim to restore up to 30 meters of river width in some areas previously occupied by houses.

Dizon explained that narrow channels accelerate water flow, increasing the risk of downstream destruction.

Long-term solutions discussed during the visit include the construction of dams in upstream mountainous areas.

While planning for these projects can start immediately, actual construction may take one to two years to complete.

Gabion dams may also be used as supplementary measures, but their effectiveness is limited if river channels remain constricted.

Dizon stressed the need to enforce no-build zones along critical sections of the riverbanks, noting that families displaced by Typhoon Tino must not be allowed to return to hazard-prone areas.

He said the national government, through the National Housing Authority (NHA) and the Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD), will provide housing, while local governments must identify suitable relocation sites.

Gullas confirmed that displaced residents are currently staying in temporary relocation sites and tent cities, with plans to open another site in February.

He said the city is prepared to provide equipment for river clearing operations if directed by DPWH.

“Pwede rajud nga kami sa equipment basta moingon lang unta si DPWH unsaon pagkabkab og asa ipangbutang para malimpyo na ni siya diri,” Gullas said.

The mayor also highlighted the need for permanent relocation areas and appealed for national government assistance in identifying and acquiring land.

Meanwhile, the DPWH-Central reminded the public that OIC Regional Director Simon Arias and other officials are not connected to any unauthorized solicitations or project-related dealings.

The office warned contractors, suppliers, and the public against engaging with anyone falsely claiming to represent DPWH officials, noting that such actions could result in administrative, civil, and criminal liability.(MyTVCebu)