Cebu may soon be free from flooding as President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. assured that within one year, the province will be “flood-free.”

Marcos Jr. announced that clearing operations will continue for nine months, with 287 heavy equipment units and personnel from the DPWH, local government units, and the private sector now deployed for the effort.

The President personally witnessed the launch of “Oplan Kontra Baha: Metro Cebu Waterways Clearing and Cleaning Operations” on Friday.

He said that aside from dredging waterways, the government will construct three to five Sabo dams in Cebu to help control river flow during flash floods.

Sabo dams — typically built in mountainous or riverine areas — trap sediment, debris, and boulders to reduce erosion, slow water flow, and protect downstream communities and infrastructure.

Simultaneous clearing and cleaning operations are also underway in major waterways, including: Mahiga Creek (Cebu–Mandaue boundary), Butuanon River (Mandaue City), S, Kinalumsan River (Cebu City), Guadalupe River (Cebu City), Cotcot River (Liloan) and Cansaga Bridge area (Consolacion).

Joining the President at the launch were Cebu Governor Pamela Baricuatro, Cebu City Mayor Nestor Archival, Talisay City Mayor Gerard Anthony Gullas and Mandaue City Mayor Thadeo Ouano.