Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas has officially lifted the cease-and-desist order (CDO) she previously issued against ongoing waterway projects in the city.

The decision came following a meeting with Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) Secretary Manuel Bonoan on July 25.

During the meeting, both parties agreed to conduct a joint, scientific, and comprehensive study on the impact of these projects on the city’s creeks, rivers, and drainage systems.

“I have decided to withdraw the CDO on the condition that the promised review and technical assessment be undertaken as soon as possible,” said Treñas.

In her official statement, Treñas emphasized that the DPWH commitment fulfilled the core objective of her initial order: to ensure no infrastructure project poses additional risk to public safety or worsens flooding in several barangays.

The mayor also clarified that no new CDOs would be necessary, as Bonoan had already ordered his personnel to conduct a detailed review in coordination with experts from the University of the Philippines-Diliman.

Treñas, in a letter to DPWH-Iloilo City District Engineer Roy Pacanan, underscored the need for proper coordination with the local government, citing DPWH Department Memorandum Order No. 110, Series of 2025.

She noted that merely sending reports or requesting road closures does not constitute proper coordination.

“As mayor, I will not allow any project to continue without the assurance that it will be beneficial and not pose any danger,” she added, insisting on regular updates from the agency.

Meanwhile, City Councilor Rex Marcus Sarabia delivered a privilege speech in the Iloilo City Council’s regular session on July 30, calling for an investigation into the same waterway projects.

He said the probe should address growing public concern about whether the constructions contributed to the recent flooding in the city.

“We want the truth. There are allegations from residents, barangay officials, and netizens, while DPWH offers its own defenses. We also have findings from CENRO (City Environment and Natural Resources) and the City Task Force on Drainage,” Sarabia stated.

Sarabia noted that narrowing creeks or rivers may reduce the capacity of waterways to channel rainwater, possibly worsening flooding.

He also raised the potential link between the projects and the bike lane constructions, which some claim obstruct water flow.

Previously, the councilor had proposed the creation of an Iloilo City Drainage and Flood Council, which would have oversight over all public and private construction projects affecting the city’s waterways.IMT