The Iloilo City Government has allocated more than P6 million for a cadastral line delineation survey of the Jaro River, seeking to establish its exact boundaries and identify encroachments as part of long-term efforts to address recurring flooding.

The P6,028,860 project is among two major flood mitigation initiatives being pursued by the city under Mayor Raisa Treñas, alongside a Comprehensive Drainage Master Plan with an estimated budget of P7 million.

Treñas asked the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR-6) to fast-track the river survey during a meeting with Regional Executive Director Atty. Ramar Niel V. Pascua.

The survey will cover the entire stretch of the Jaro River, from the boundary of Pavia to its mouth at the Iloilo Strait. It aims to determine the river’s exact boundaries, identify areas with encroachments and establish legal easements that need protection.

Treñas cited siltation and structures along the riverbanks as among the factors contributing to flooding, saying these have narrowed portions of the waterway.

The mayor said the project had been delayed for several years due to funding constraints. The city initially committed P3 million, while the remaining amount was expected from the national government.

Upon assuming office, however, Treñas directed her team to find a way to fund the entire survey through the city government to prevent further delays.

Under the agreement, DENR will handle the procurement of technical survey services and provide the city with survey maps and a technical report.

The mayor said accurate data from the survey would guide flood mitigation planning, river rehabilitation and possible relocation of affected families.

Meanwhile, the city has completed a hydrologic study commissioned from experts and scientists to examine Iloilo City’s topography, water flow and possible causes of flooding.

Its findings will serve as the scientific basis for the Comprehensive Drainage Master Plan, which will guide the city’s long-term flood mitigation measures.

While these projects are being pursued, the city continues its immediate interventions, including drainage declogging operations that have covered more than 18 kilometers in various areas.

Treñas said immediate and medium-term interventions must continue alongside long-term projects, in coordination with DENR and other government agencies.IMT