The Cebu City Government has called on residents to help reduce the clogging of major waterways by practicing proper waste disposal, stressing that indiscriminate throwing of garbage continues to worsen flooding in many parts of the city during heavy rains.
The appeal came after heavy downpours affected several areas of Cebu City on Wednesday, prompting post-rain inspections that revealed drainage systems, canals, and waterways clogged with plastic bottles, household waste, and other debris.
City officials said the accumulated garbage obstructed the flow of water, contributing to flooding in several communities.
In response, the Department of Engineering and Public Works (DEPW) immediately conducted declogging operations, clearing blocked waterways and removing tons of waste from the city’s drainage system to restore the normal flow of water.
The city government said similar operations will continue in flood-prone areas as part of its ongoing flood mitigation efforts.
While Cebu City continues to implement drainage improvement projects and regular cleaning activities, officials emphasized that government interventions alone are not enough to address flooding.
They pointed out that improper waste disposal remains one of the leading causes of clogged waterways and overflowing drainage systems during periods of heavy rainfall.
The city government urged residents to properly segregate and dispose of their garbage and to refrain from throwing waste into canals, esteros, rivers, and other waterways.
Barangays, businesses, schools, and community organizations were likewise encouraged to participate in regular clean-up drives and promote responsible solid waste management within their respective communities.
As the rainy season continues, the Cebu City Government called on every Cebuano to do their part in reducing flood risks.
The city will continue to experience heavy rains and thunderstorms until Friday, July 23, 2026, based on the two-day Special Localized Weather Forecast and Outlook of state weather bureau Pagasa. The southwest monsoon continues to affect several parts of the Visayas and Mindanao.
Emergency response operations were conducted on Wednesday evening to help out stranded passengers from floodwaters in the downtown area. The Cebu City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CCDRRMO) deployed its rescue truck where it helped ferry stranded passengers to safety.
City officials reiterated that simple actions such as disposing of waste properly, keeping drainage systems free from obstructions, and encouraging others to do the same can significantly help protect lives and properties from flooding.
The city government underscored that flood prevention is a shared responsibility, adding that collective action and environmental stewardship are essential in building a cleaner, safer, and more resilient Cebu City in line with its vision of becoming a Smart, Sustainable, and Inclusive City.