• THERESA MAE DULMAN
The Advocates of Science and Technology for the People (AGHAM) – Negros Island Chapter issued a statement, criticizing the ‘patchwork’ solutions being implemented by the Bacolod City government to address the escalating flood problems.
According to the group comprised of scientists, engineers, researchers, and STEM educators, the large-scale conversion of farmland into luxury subdivisions and business centers has damaged natural drainage and watersheds.
They claimed that the developments, often built without harmony with the environment, have resulted in unprecedented flooding in areas like Banago, Bata, Mandalagan, Villamonte, Mansilingan, and Alijis, where runoff water remains trapped for long periods.
“Everywhere and anywhere concrete structures including built canals and drainage systems were constructed not in harmony with the natural environment,” the group said.
The group added that as per their expert’s initial investigation, the Bacolod City’s urban development plan lacks an equivalent flood control and drainage system strategy, despite reports indicating that a billion-peso feasibility project was undertaken by the city in recent years.
They characterized existing flood control efforts as ‘budget-driven for political reasons’ rather than science-based, noting that many projects lack proper engineering design.
The group urged Mayor Greg Gasataya to provide a public accounting of the billions spent on flood control and infrastructure projects during his tenure as Congressman of Bacolod City from 2017 to 2025.
AGHAM NIR maintains that understanding past performances is essential for creating grounded, long-term solutions.
The organization argues that the canal desilting and the construction of a diversion channel in the SM-Bredco area failed to provide viable or strategic solutions.
The organization called on the city government, private sector, and concerned agencies to engage in objective and constructive planning sessions.*
