Bacolod Flood Mitigation Efforts Receive Government Backing
BACOLOD CITY — The recent floods that struck Bacolod City have prompted urgent government action. Local leaders confirmed that President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has committed funds to support Bacolod flood mitigation efforts. This assurance comes amid concerns over missing allocations in the national budget that were originally intended for critical flood control projects.
According to local officials, the President promised to restore the funding that “disappeared” from this year’s budget, ensuring the continuation of essential infrastructure work. Bacolod Rep. Alfredo Abelardo Benitez highlighted that floodgates and pumping stations planned for Bacolod’s rivers are pivotal to resolving the city’s flooding challenges.
Expanded Scope Requires Increased Funding
Initially, P300 million was requested to construct floodgates and pumping stations across three rivers. However, the project scope has grown to cover five rivers, necessitating a larger budget to meet the expanded needs. Benitez emphasized the urgency of these components, which are vital in controlling floodwaters and protecting residents.
Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan has also voiced strong support for the project, reinforcing the government’s commitment to swift action.
Coordinated Response Following July 11 Floods
Following the severe flooding on the night of July 11, which displaced over 5,000 residents, Benitez and Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya led an emergency meeting with the city’s Disaster Risk Reduction Council and key agencies. The session aimed to discuss immediate interventions and long-term flood mitigation strategies.
The meeting included representatives from the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, DPWH, City Engineering Offices, Bureau of Fire Protection, and the police. Benitez instructed the DPWH to provide cost estimates promptly to expedite project implementation.
Priority Measures to Protect Vulnerable Areas
Key initiatives focus on installing floodgates and pumping stations in flood-prone neighborhoods such as Banago and Mandalagan. These structures will boost water discharge capacity and help prevent sudden water surges during heavy rains.
“We cannot afford to waste any more time. We must act now,” Benitez declared, urging immediate progress. Mayor Gasataya supported this call, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts among city departments and the council. “We can’t wait any longer. All departments and the City Council need to work together. Let’s have quick and real solutions. Let’s get it done,” he said.
Drainage Improvement and Emergency Operations
The meeting also tackled urgent drainage concerns. Officials outlined plans to identify the best water channels, clear blocked floodways, and conduct emergency dredging along the Mandalagan shoreline and Banago River to ease water flow.
On Sunday afternoon, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office dispatched a team to drain floodwaters from Purok Katilingban in Barangay Banago, home to 132 families. These steps show the city’s commitment to immediate relief and long-term resilience.
For more news and updates on Bacolod flood mitigation efforts, visit Filipinokami.com.
