Twenty-three structures in Sitio Bato, Barangay Ermita, Cebu City, are being voluntarily dismantled as part of the city’s programme to reclaim a three-metre easement along waterways.
Each affected household will receive P20,000 in financial assistance under an executive order signed by Mayor Nestor Archival.
The removal forms part of efforts to restore the flow of water into the city’s river system and clear areas obstructed by buildings constructed within the designated easement.
Clearing Work to Make Way for Drainage Equipment
Mayor Archival said the structures had restricted the waterway, contributing to water accumulation within the drainage network.
The clearing will provide access for hydraulic equipment to enter the area and carry out the necessary drainage works.
As of Wednesday, November 4, between 15 and 20 per cent of the identified houses had been dismantled.
City officials are targeting the completion of the clearing either later that day or on Thursday, November 5.
Hydraulic Operations Expected to Begin After Demolition
Hydraulic equipment has already been positioned in the area and is expected to begin work once the entrance has been cleared.
The city aims to complete the planned drainage interventions within the week.
The removal of the structures is intended to provide the machinery with sufficient access to the waterway so that the required work can proceed.
City Seeks Compromise With Businesses Along Waterways
The easement recovery programme also covers major commercial establishments whose structures extend into river areas.
Archival acknowledged that some business owners might resist immediate demolition and said the city was considering compromise arrangements.
The proposed solutions would allow affected establishments to participate in flood-mitigation efforts without necessarily having to remove their existing infrastructure immediately.
Mayor Warns Against Delays Ahead of Rainy Season
Archival stressed the need to complete the drainage interventions before the rainy season becomes more intense.
He noted that postponing the work could make the operations considerably more difficult as rainfall increases.
