PHP 6-million waterway survey part of city’s El Niño prep

ILOILO CITY — With a strong El Niño looming, the Iloilo City government is strengthening science-based planning and resilience efforts through its first scientific forum to address emerging climate and disaster risks.

The two-day forum, held Sept. 28-29, convened scientists, technical experts, business leaders, academic institutions, and other partners to discuss the climate, environmental, technological, and social hazards confronting the city.

The city government said the forum aimed to strengthen risk governance, resilience, and sustainable development by increasing awareness and understanding of emerging climate and non-climate risks that could affect Iloilo City in the coming years.

Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas-Chu said early and science-based preparations would help the city avert the possible impacts of a “Super El Niño” on water supply, food production, fisheries, livelihoods, and the daily lives of Ilonggos.

“When the time comes that there is a lack of water supply and there is extreme heat, it is the families, especially those that are already vulnerable, that suffer the brunt of these disasters. This is why preparedness must begin before a crisis happens,” she said.

The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said on Sept. 23 that a very strong El Niño is likely to emerge between September and December 2026 and may continue until the first half of 2027.

PAGASA warned that prolonged rainfall deficits raise the risk of severe agricultural dry spells and water supply stress, threatening food security, water resources, energy production, public health, and the broader economy.

The first day of the forum focused on scientific expertise, technical insights, and evidence-based perspectives on evolving climate conditions and their implications for disaster risk reduction, adaptation, and sustainable development.

The second day highlighted the role of the private sector in promoting science-informed governance and the importance of foresight in anticipating risks, reducing vulnerabilities, and turning scientific knowledge into proactive action.

“As a city, we know that preparing for these challenges requires more than responding when a disaster happens. We need to understand the risks, anticipate impacts, and make decisions that protect lives before danger reaches our communities,” Treñas-Chu said.

“Science gives us the knowledge to understand these risks, but it is our responsibility to turn that knowledge into action,” she added.

Treñas-Chu said collaboration among scientists, communities, and institutions was necessary to develop practical solutions to the city’s emerging risks.

The mayor also cited several city programs aimed at strengthening disaster preparedness and environmental resilience.

Through the KABALAKA program, the city trains residents and barangays in disaster preparedness, recognizing them as first responders during emergencies.

The city also implements the I-Greens program, which includes tree planting, environmental protection, and mangrove rehabilitation, as well as coastal greening, rainwater harvesting, EcoCycle waste management, and SunRISE solar initiatives.

Treñas-Chu also said the city government has allocated PHP 6 million for a delineation survey and review of waterways in Iloilo City.

The survey will identify the actual flow of water through creeks and natural waterways and determine areas that need to be cleared.

It will also identify areas occupied by informal settlers who may need to be relocated to prevent obstruction of waterways.

“Every plan, every program, and every partnership must lead to safer communities and a city that is ready to face whatever challenges may come,” Treñas-Chu said.