A Grade 5 student from Cebu International School brought a science-inspired proposal straight to Cebu City Hall on Friday, May 29, 2026, presenting a flood control concept directly to Mayor Nestor Archival in a meeting that blended civic learning with disaster awareness.
Ten-year-old Annanda Fang, accompanied by her teacher Michelle Lacerna, met with the mayor at his office where she discussed flood risks, prevention strategies, and community-based solutions aimed at improving the city’s preparedness for flooding incidents.
During the session, Fang also asked the mayor about his duties in times of disaster, including how the city identifies flood-prone areas and how communities are informed of risks.
Archival explained that his primary responsibility is to ensure public welfare through essential services, including health, education, cleanliness, traffic management, and disaster response.
He said that during flooding events, the city government prioritizes rescue operations, immediate assistance, and ensuring the safety of affected residents.
For long-term mitigation, the mayor pointed to environmental and infrastructure-based interventions such as tree planting, rainwater harvesting, and the construction of water catchment systems.
He noted that worsening floods are partly linked to environmental changes, including deforestation and development near waterways that reduce natural water absorption.
In turn, Fang presented her own proposed solution: a sensor-based flood monitoring and alert system powered by solar energy that can detect rising water levels and trigger early warnings for evacuation.
She also showed a miniature village model inspired by Villa del Rio Village, demonstrating how flood scenarios could be addressed through early warning systems and improved water management strategies.
Archival commended the student’s initiative, saying youth participation plays an important role in addressing environmental and disaster-related challenges and in building long-term community resilience.
Photo by Jamel Anne Manolong, Cebu City PIO
Comments