Residents in Barangay Ermita, Cebu City, are dismantling their homes to make way for drainage rehabilitation. Twenty-three families have begun the process of removing their structures as part of a larger effort to address recurring flooding in the Colon area. The project aims to improve water flow and reduce the risk of inundation during heavy rains.
Manual Badajos, a local resident, stopped repairing his makeshift carinderia in Sitio Bato, knowing it would soon be dismantled. His case highlights the personal impact of the drainage works, as many residents face the challenge of relocating or rebuilding after their homes are removed. The initiative is part of a broader anti-flood drive in the region, targeting areas prone to waterlogging.
The decision to demolish homes in Barangay Ermita follows years of flooding that has disrupted daily life and damaged property. Local authorities have emphasized the necessity of the project to enhance infrastructure and protect the community from future flood risks. While the process has caused inconvenience, officials argue it is a critical step toward long-term resilience. The work is ongoing, with plans to complete the drainage improvements in the coming months.
