Ridge-to-Reef: An integrated approach to environmental management and resilient human settlements

Recently, the public witnessed the devastating impact of floods on Cebu. These floods swept into settlement areas, not only along the riverbanks but also into planned areas.

- By HENRY L. YAP, EUAP, FPIEP, EAROPH

Various commentaries have been made regarding the reasons behind such a scale of flooding. Many pointed to the improper and insufficient flood control projects as the main reasons.

Pending formal inquiries, reports, and videos circulating on social media indicate several factors that could have contributed to the massive flooding. These include unusually high rainfall caused by Typhoon Tino, deforestation of upland areas, limited carrying capacity of water channels (both natural and man-made), settlements located in critical areas, easements and no-build zones, blocked drainage, physical obstructions at lowlands, and high tide and tidal surge. These factors demonstrate that events in the uplands and coastlines have significant impacts on the areas in between.