Gasataya seeks national aid for Bacolod flood control

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — As President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s State of the Nation Address approaches, Mayor Greg Gasataya expressed hopes for stronger national government support for Bacolod’s environmental and flood control programs.

Gasataya said recent flooding in the city has underscored the urgent need for infrastructure improvements and long-term environmental solutions.

“This is where we need help the most,” he said, citing drainage blockages and poor waste disposal as major contributors to the recent floods.

He emphasized the importance of the diversion channel project, which remains non-operational due to the lack of key infrastructure such as a pump gate and flood gate.

Without those engineering components, the facility cannot function as intended, he said.

“Hopefully, this project can be included in the national budget — if not this year, then as early as next year. Because without proper engineering, it cannot fully operate,” Gasataya said.

He noted that while garbage collection is a local responsibility, national support is critical for sustaining long-term environmental initiatives, especially amid growing challenges.

Gasataya confirmed he will attend the SONA, having been invited as a former member of the House of Representatives.

An initial PHP300 million was allocated in the 2025 General Appropriations Act for three floodgates for the Mandalagan, Lupit, and Magsungay rivers — each estimated at PHP100 million.

However, the allocation — made during the term of then Mayor and now Rep. Alfredo “Albee” Benitez — was unexpectedly removed earlier this year.

Benitez recently raised the issue with President Marcos and requested additional funds to include all five rivers, adding Banago and Sum-ag to the list.

He also said he is coordinating closely with Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan, who has expressed full support for the project.

Before tropical depression Crising hit the city last week, Bacolod was already grappling with severe flooding that affected more than 4,000 families, mostly in the city’s northern areas.

Dredging operations have since begun in an effort to mitigate future flooding.