Cebu: The Department of Human Settlements and Urban Development (DHSUD) on Thursday urged local government units (LGUs) to strictly enforce no-build zones and strengthen the implementation of climate-resilient land use planning to help prevent flooding and other disasters in vulnerable areas.
According to Philippines News Agency, DHSUD Undersecretary Henry Yap noted in a Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon interview that recent flooding in parts of the country, including Cebu, can be attributed to the loss of forest cover and poor upland management. Yap highlighted that the mountains now have reduced forest cover, causing rainwater to quickly flow down from uplands, which overwhelms drainage systems.
Yap referenced data showing that during Typhoon Tino, Cebu received over 180 millimeters of rainfall in a 24-hour period between November 3 and 4, surpassing the province’s average monthly rainfall of 130 millimeters. He stressed the importance of reviewing permits in upland areas, asserting that flood control projects alone cannot resolve the issue.
To address these challenges, Yap mentioned that a ‘whole-of-government approach’ is being implemented, involving coordination between DHSUD, the National Housing Authority, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and LGUs. This includes efforts from the relocation of residents to clearing drainage systems, as directed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.
Yap also emphasized the necessity for LGUs to update their Comprehensive Land Use Plans (CLUPs) to incorporate climate and geohazard data. The DHSUD is providing technical assistance to LGUs, particularly those lacking the capacity to hire consultants, and has released guidelines on urban design and green, resilient settlements.
Regarding the relocation of families in danger zones, Yap assured that the DHSUD coordinates with other agencies to facilitate safe and livable communities. He added that the NHA has inventoried completed but unoccupied housing units, following Marcos’s directive to prioritize their distribution to qualified beneficiaries. The DHSUD remains committed to assisting LGUs in preparing climate-responsive plans.
