Public consultation on proposed dam project in Cebu set

Local

A PUBLIC consultation on the proposed construction of dams in different areas in Cebu is set on May 18.

The Cebu Provincial Government and the Department of Public Works and Highways-Central Visayas (DPWH-7) will seek public sentiment from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. at the Capitol Social Hall per recommendation of the Regional Development Council-Central Visayas (RDC-7).

The proposed construction of dams endorsed by the Provincial Development Council chaired by Gov. Pamela Baricuatro was deferred by the RDC-7 for further assessment and public engagement.

The RDC-7 is also chaired by Baricuatro.

Expected to participate in the public consultation are those from towns and cities in the northern Cebu affected by typhoon Tino last year.

The consultation aims to identify and address concerns especially by families who will be affected or be relocated by the project.

Social and environmental impacts of the projects will also be tackled.

DPWH-7 is proposing P5 billion for the five dams, costing P1 billion each which is planned to be constructed along Mananga River in Talisay City, Bulacao, Guadalupe, Lusaran and Kinalumsan Rivers in Cebu City, Cansaga River in Consolacion and Mandaue, Butuanon River in Mandaue, Cotcot River in Liloan and Compostela and Danao River.

Included in the budget are the consultancy services for the feasibility studies, detailed engineering design and the actual construction work of the dams which are eyed to be implemented rom 2027 to 2029.

After the public consultation, the DPWH-7 is mandated to resubmit the project proposal to the council for review and approval and eventually be endorsed for national funding.

Baricuatro said the primary objective of these dams is to prevent flooding, mitiagate the impact of the looming El Niño, and regulate water to optimize its storage and use.(MyTVCebu)