By Xander Ledesma
The Cebu City government has announced plans to construct a water retention pond in the upland area of Nasipit, Barangay Talamban, to mitigate flooding in low-lying neighborhoods. Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has appointed Danilo Jaque as a consultant for drainage, flood control, and stormwater management to spearhead this initiative.
Jaque, who previously contributed to the Metro Cebu Integrated Flood Control and Drainage System Master Plan funded by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) in 2016, brings extensive experience in designing flood control structures for both local governments and private developers. He has been tasked with conducting a feasibility study for the proposed retention pond, which aims to alleviate flooding in the Banilad and Talamban areas.
Mayor Garcia has also sought assistance from the national government, particularly the DPWH, to support the project’s implementation. The estimated cost of the retention pond will be determined following the completion of the feasibility study.
This initiative is part of Cebu City’s broader efforts to address persistent flooding issues. In August 2024, the DPWH allocated approximately PHP2 billion for major flood control infrastructures in Cebu City, scheduled for implementation in 2025. Additionally, the city government has been revisiting upland subdivisions to assess compliance with rainwater catchment requirements, recognizing the role of such measures in mitigating downstream flooding.
The planned retention pond in Nasipit aligns with these ongoing efforts, aiming to enhance the city’s resilience against flooding and protect vulnerable communities.