Plans for massive dam network in Cebu in the works

Local

CEBU moves toward a massive dam network as planners push a multi-billion-peso plan aimed at breaking the province’s cycle of floods and water shortages.

The Department of Public Works and Highways-Central Visayas (DPWH-7) is advancing a proposal to construct seven reservoir dams across major river systems in Cebu, positioning the project as a long-term intervention for both flood control and water security.

The agency identified seven river systems for the network: Mananga River, Bulacao River, Guadalupe, Butuanon River, Lusaran, Cotcot in Liloan, and selected areas in Danao City.

Officials said the plan is designed to regulate water flow and reduce sudden surges that trigger flash floods.

DPWH-7 regional director Engr. Simon Arias said the concept came from within the agency as flooding events intensified across the province.

“The series of dams as a long-term solution sa flooding is actually proposed by us, by DPWH,” Arias said in an interview.

He explained that the structures go beyond flood control and are designed with multiple functions integrated into each site.

Arias described the system as a “four in one” approach for flood-control structures.

The agency said the dams will also provide irrigation for agriculture, supply domestic water, and generate hydropower for electricity.

The agency placed initial funding at around P1 billion per river system, or estimated at P7 billion and set for phased implementation over up to 10 years.

Officials said feasibility studies are ongoing to determine technical and environmental viability before construction starts.

Arias said implementation could begin as early as 2027 if funding is approved by national authorities.

He added that the proposal depends on budget support from the national government and the Department of Budget and Management for a possible 2027 rollout.

At the provincial level, Gov. Pamela Baricuatro expressed support for expanding Cebu’s water storage capacity, citing long-standing issues during dry seasons and El Niño events.

“How I wish we have dams, naa ‘tay reservoir of water so dako untag matabang karon,” Baricuatro said.

"I wish we have water reservoirs to reserve water because it would really help us now, but unfortunately we just have to make do with what we have," Baricuatro added.

The governor noted that the proposal has already gained approval from the Regional Development Council and is now undergoing further studies and funding arrangements.

She also pointed to ongoing national assistance, including P720 million from the Local Government Support Fund, allocated for rice procurement and smaller infrastructure projects aimed at climate response.(MyTVCebu)