Bridge columns hamper water flow, contribute to flooding

CEBU, Philippines — The Cebu City Council is calling for a study on redesigning the structural columns of the bridge along the port area after discovering that they obstruct the flow of water, contributing to flooding in Manalili.

This initiative originated from a privilege speech by Councilor Jerry Guardo, Chairman of the City Council Committee on Infrastructure, who initially proposed requesting the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to redesign the structure.

However, Guardo withdrew this resolution after some council members raised concerns about factors such as the ownership of the bridge and the need for further study.

Consequently, Guardo moved to call an executive session to discuss the matter and for the DPWH to present its proposal.

In his speech, Guardo mentioned that during an inspection of the Estero de Parian, they found that the waterways were constricted, impeding the flow of water. This constriction was partly due to houses occupying portions of the river.

"Naa pa gyud mga balay nga low-lying kaayo, usa nalang ka dangaw ang nabilin sa atong agianan sa tubig," said Guardo.

"Na constricted, mura nalang og kana ang nablin padung sa dagat bitaw," he added.

Guardo warned that if these structures are not cleared, it could result in the slowing down of floodwaters, backflow, and overflow, potentially leading to more severe flooding. He noted that these constricted waterways have already caused flooding in Manalili.

Citing the Task Force Gubat sa Baha, Guardo reported that out of 105 houses built within the three-meter easement along the Estero de Parian, 85 houses continue to obstruct the flow of water.

Additionally, Guardo pointed out that the construction of structural columns underneath the bridge in Pier 2 is another factor obstructing the waterways.

During his speech, Guardo presented photos showing the construction of at least five columns. He suggested that the DPWH could redesign this structure to use only two columns, thereby creating more space for the waterways. He also noted that some of the columns are unnecessary.

"Kay ang problema man gud dira kay kung dunay grabe nga baha, mga bagyo ang mga debris, mga logs, mga kahoy, manga sangit dira. Then inig kasangit diha mao nga maka cause sa bara," Guardo said.

On September 2, 2024, Guardo mentioned that they met with the Cebu Port Authority (CPA) and the DPWH, both of whom expressed support for redesigning the structure. The CPA even offered to demolish a portion of the concrete wall in the area to facilitate easier access for equipment when civil works commence.

During the discussion, Councilor Nestor Archival Sr., the Minority Floor Leader, emphasized the need for a "careful study" of the matter, pointing out that the ownership of the bridge has not yet been determined.

"Simbako uroy og ato ng ipatangtang, ikiha ta tanan?" he said.

 Councilor Joel Garganera clarified that the area in question is not functioning as a bridge but rather as part of the pier.

The council agreed that it would be better to call an executive session to discuss the matter further. This session is scheduled for October 22, 2024.  (CEBU NEWS)