Hundreds, if not thousands of Dabawenyos were afraid of a possible flood, after receiving “Code Orange” then “Code Red” warnings from authorities monitoring the level of water in the tributaries of the mighty Davao River in certain barangays of the city. Fortunately, the water level receded hours after in the rivers of Suawan, Tamugan, Panigan, Malamba, Lamanan, Lampianao and down to Waan.
The above-mentioned places are not the only barangays often threatened by the onrushing currents of floods. The ominous scenario is repeated everytime there is heavy downpour in the upland areas.
Thankfully, the guys from Davao City Disaster Risk and Reduction Management Office (DCDRRMO) are vigilant in monitoring the rivers’ behavior and fast in sounding the warning signals.
Unfortunately this is not just a matter of monitoring the rivers’ water levels. There are more problems that cause the floods. The situation is caused by criminal activities of some irresponsible Dabawenyos like illegal logging of the remaining timberlands in the city’s mountain fastnesses and the unregulated quarrying of our rivers.
It is hoped that Dabawenyos and the authorities including the incoming elected new officials, will always be mindful of this growing problem which has already wrecked havoc on their lives in the very recent past.
If not addressed and allowed to worsen floods will negate the socio-economic gains of the city, including the much ballyhooed infrastructure system of the city.
