P180-M underdrainage project eyed to address Baguio lagoon flooding

BAGUIO CITY — The city government is coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on a proposed P180-million underdrainage project to address recurring flooding in City Camp Lagoon, with the construction schedule still under discussion.

City Engineer Richard Lardizabal, in a statement on Friday, Oct. 10, said the approximately 11,033-square-meter Lagoon area receives water from Naguilian Road, Quezon Hill, City Camp Lagoon and Lower Rock Quarry. The area has two sinkholes, identified as Lagoon 1 and Lagoon 2, which serve as natural collection points for water.

Lardizabal said the city had previously widened the lagoon’s throat to accommodate large volumes of incoming water. However, garbage carried by tributaries from upstream communities remains a challenge, as debris can clog installed screens and cause water to overflow.

Article continues after this advertisement

Barangays and the Task Force Lagoon, led by Lower Rock Quarry barangay officials, help monitor and clear the screens and waterways, particularly after heavy rains. The City Engineering Office also assists in disposing of accumulated waste and maintaining the lagoon.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

READ: Typhoon Inday topples trees, crushes vehicles in Baguio

The project is part of a larger DPWH funding allocation, but it remains unclear whether the P180 million has been formally approved or released.

The city is also considering other uses for the surrounding property, including green spaces, rainwater harvesting areas, a materials recovery facility and other government facilities.

To reduce garbage entering the waterways, the city is working to recover the required three-meter creek easements where possible. Where recovery is not feasible, fences may be installed along creek sides to discourage illegal dumping. Mechanized screens are also being considered to help remove debris before it enters the drainage system.

Lardizabal said the city has consulted the 12 barangays affected by flooding and continues to coordinate with DPWH on project concerns and implementation plans. While the project remains in the coordination and preparatory stage, regular monitoring and maintenance of the waterways continue as the city works toward a longer-term drainage solution. /das