The Department of Public Works and Highways in Central Visayas (DPWH 7) is pushing a long-term water management plan that proposes building seven dam systems across the province to address recurring floods and seasonal water shortages.
The proposal identifies major river systems as potential dam sites, including Mananga, Bulacao, Guadalupe, Butuanon, Lusaran, Cotcot in Liloan, and additional locations in Danao. Officials said these areas were selected due to their role in managing water flow across Cebu’s watershed systems.
DPWH-7 Regional Director Engr. Simon Arias said the plan was designed as a long-term solution to repeated flooding incidents in several communities.
“The series of dams as a long-term solution sa flooding is actually proposed by us, by DPWH,” Arias said.
He added that the project aims to regulate river levels and reduce sudden water surges that trigger flash floods in downstream areas.
“Para hindi na mag flash flood. It’s a long-term solution to flooding,” he said.
Beyond flood control, the proposed dams are also designed for multi-use functions, including potable water storage, irrigation support for agriculture, and potential hydropower generation.
Arias described the concept as a multi-purpose infrastructure approach intended to maximize the benefit of each site.
“Flood control structures serve four in one,” he said.
The proposal remains in the feasibility stage, with technical, environmental, and social assessments ongoing to determine site suitability and project impact.
If approved, DPWH 7 said implementation could begin as early as 2027, depending on national government approval and budget allocation.
“If the President will give our Department of Budget and Management to start in 2027, that’s my proposal,” Arias said.
He noted, however, that timelines remain subject to adjustment depending on funding and regulatory processes.
Initial estimates place the cost at around P1 billion per river system, with the project expected to be implemented in phases over several years.
Local officials have expressed support for the proposal as Cebu continues to face water supply challenges during prolonged dry spells and flooding during heavy rains.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro earlier pointed to the lack of major water storage infrastructure as a long-standing gap in the province’s water security.
“How I wish we have dams, naa tay reservoir of water so dako untag matabang karon,” she said.
She also confirmed that the proposal has already secured approval from the Regional Development Council, moving it a step closer to funding consideration and possible implementation. (SBA)
Photo courtesy of Ibon Foundation
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