Mayor Benjamin Magalong is pushing for a citywide clearing of the drainage system several days before a typhoon hits, weeks after the city experienced flooding incidents due to typhoon Maring.
During the regular management committee meeting of local officials, on Oct. 19, Magalong directed City Engineering Office head Edgar Victorio Olpindo to spearhead the program and to mobilize those in the barangays and private sector organizations to get involved in the clearing operations.
Olpindo said his office has already been engaging in the clearing of the city’s drainage system even during ordinary days but agreed those in the barangays and private sector should be encouraged to pitch in.
“The government cannot do it alone. The entire community should help in the regular clearing of our drainage system from garbage and other debris especially before a typhoon strikes. We should all embody the bayanihan spirit for the good of our community,” Magalong said.
City Administrator Bonifacio dela Pena reminded those conducting construction activities in the city to secure their materials days before a weather disturbance occurs so that these will not contribute in the clogging of drainages.
After their inspection in the aftermath of typhoon Maring, he said it was found out several drainages were clogged with sand and other construction materials aside from the usual garbage including face masks and shields. – Gaby B. Keith
