Dismayed Baricuatro wants probe into Cebu’s flood control projects

Baricuatro emphasized her commitment to clean governance, saying, “My stance is clear: I will stand to protect the people, and bribes do not sway me.” She further warned: “To those involved in corruption— brace yourselves. The truth will come out.”

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Echoing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.'s recent remarks on infrastructure accountability, Baricuatro remarked, “As PBBM said, ‘Mahiya naman kayo!’ It's high time for accountability.”

Baricuatro’s frustration is amplified by Cebu’s ranking as the second-highest province in the number of flood control projects since 2022. The DPWH recorded 414 such projects undertaken in Cebu even if it is not on the list of the top 10 flood-prone areas in the country.

For others, it may be that Cebu is “advanced thinking” in disaster preparedness, but recent events have cast doubt on the effectiveness of these projects.

Earlier, Baricuatro has ordered a province-wide audit of all flood control projects and requested a full status report from the DPWH. She clarified that many of the projects were funded through national allocations or congressional insertions, not by the provincial government.

Cebu’s flood control portfolio includes major works in the cities of Carcar, Talisay, Bogo, and Mandaue, and the town of Liloan, involving different contractors involved. Some projects remain incomplete or suspended due to permitting issues.

“The truth will come out,” said Baricuatro, after seeing Metro Cebu reeling from the overwhelming effects of the downpour and deluge, converting metropolitan streets into “swimming pools” or “beaches.”

The deluge paralyzed traffic, submerged homes, cars, and forced hundreds of families or individuals to flee to safety.

GUADALUPE RIVER OVERFLOWED

In Cebu City, the Guadalupe River overflowed, affecting several barangays in the city, although, as of presstime, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office Chief Aderson Comar said no major casualties were reported.