24/07/2025
As a resident of Bacoor, severe flooding during the rainy season is nothing new to us. Ever since I was a child, this has always been the situation—whenever it rains hard, many areas are immediately submerged. Decades have passed, yet it seems like no concrete steps are being taken by those in power to permanently solve this problem. It’s disheartening and frustrating because instead of moving forward, we seem to be stuck in the same cycle year after year.
There’s no clear long-term plan. The government only offers temporary solutions—installing pumps, clearing garbage, fixing roads—but there is no consistent or effective flood management system being followed. Their approach is always reactive instead of preventive. Declaring a state of calamity is not enough if we’ll just go back to the same situation afterwards.
Possible Solutions the Government Should Implement:
1. Comprehensive Drainage Master Plan
A modern and large-capacity drainage system must be developed and regularly updated to handle both heavy rainfall and high tides.
2. Desilting and Dredging of Rivers and Estuaries
Regular removal of silt and trash in waterways to prevent them from becoming shallow and easily flooded.
3. Strict Implementation of Waste Management Laws
Blocked canals and rivers due to garbage are a major cause of flooding. The government should strictly enforce laws and penalties against improper waste disposal.
4. Urban Planning and Land Use Regulation
Review the approval of subdivisions, malls, and other infrastructures. Many wetlands and natural waterways are being concreted, causing water to flood more quickly.
5. Relocation of Families Living in Flood-Prone Areas
Provide proper relocation to informal settlers living along riverbanks and estuaries so these areas can be rehabilitated properly.
6. Utilization of Modern Technology
Invest in early warning systems, automated floodgates, and smart monitoring of rainfall and drainage systems.
7. Community Involvement and Education
Educate residents on the importance of cleanliness and participation in community projects. Discipline in waste disposal must start at home.
Government action should not end with declaring a state of calamity. So much time has already been wasted, and the people are tired. It’s time for real, lasting solutions—not just for the present but for the future of the next generations in Bacoor and all of Cavite. We hope that we won’t only hear announcements and promises during times of flooding, but actually see meaningful change.
