DAVAO CITY (August 1) – Dredging operations along the Talomo River, particularly near the Taal Bailey Bridge, officially began on Friday as part of the government’s efforts to reduce flooding in flood-prone communities.
The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) launched the operation to remove accumulated sand, silt, and other debris that have constricted the river’s flow over the years. Officials said clearing the river channel is expected to improve water flow and lessen the risk of flooding, especially during periods of heavy rainfall.
The operation was undertaken following the directive of Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon, who ordered the immediate implementation of flood mitigation measures after inspecting communities severely affected by the recent flooding in Davao City.
During the inspection, DPWH personnel informed Dizon that no dredging had been undertaken along the affected stretch of the Talomo River for nearly a decade. Reacting with disbelief, the Public Works chief exclaimed, “Anak ng tupa naman!”, expressing frustration over what he described as years of neglect.
Residents who met with the secretary complained that flood-control projects in the area had remained unfinished for years. One resident alleged that funds intended for flood mitigation had been misused, saying, “Ninakaw nila ang pera. Kung nadugtong ang dike, hindi tataas ang tubig dito.” (“They stole the money. If the dike had been completed, the floodwaters would not have risen here.”)
Responding to the resident’s statement, Dizon said, “Totoo ‘yan. Kung hindi ninakaw ang pera, dapat wala nang ganito.” (“That’s true. If the money had not been stolen, this should not have happened.”)
The allegations made by residents have not been independently verified.
Dizon also observed that portions of the river have uneven slopes, causing water to slow down and overflow into nearby residential communities during periods of intense rainfall.
Flooding has become a recurring problem in Davao City, particularly in communities surrounding the Talomo River. Because much of the city’s runoff originates from the upland areas, heavy rains in the hinterlands quickly drain toward low-lying communities. The situation worsens when swollen river waters coincide with high tide, preventing floodwaters from emptying into Davao Gulf and causing water to backflow into residential areas.
Recent floods have submerged homes in waist-deep water, forcing hundreds of families to evacuate and causing significant damage to property, livelihoods, and public infrastructure. Beyond the physical destruction, residents continue to endure psychological stress and uncertainty, particularly among children, pregnant women, older persons, and other vulnerable sectors.
As dredging operations continue, many residents remain hopeful that the long-delayed intervention will provide lasting relief from the flooding that has repeatedly disrupted their lives.
The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) has noted that easterlies—warm, humid winds blowing from the Pacific Ocean—frequently bring scattered to widespread rains over Eastern Mindanao, including the Davao Region. Combined with intense localized thunderstorms and high tides, these weather systems can trigger flooding in low-lying communities.
The flooding problem has been affecting communities while the House of Representatives and the Senate has yet to unmask the personalities behind the multibillion flood control mess.-Editha Z. Caduaya
