BACOLOD City – The city government here, led by Mayor Greg Gasataya, launched its first massive clean-up drive at the creek of Purok Riverside, Barangay Banago on Friday, July 25, as part of its intensified campaign against flooding.
Barangay Banago is among the 61 barangays identified as severely affected by flooding in the city’s northern area following last week’s heavy rains. The clean-up drive was initially scheduled for July 22 but was moved to Friday due to inclement weather.
According to Mayor Gasataya, the initiative underscores his administration’s ongoing commitment to mobilize community members and government agencies in addressing flood-related issues. He stressed the importance of clearing and cleaning waterways in Barangay Banago that have long been clogged with garbage and silt.
“Workers and leaders from different barangays, departments, and agencies came together as one today, all in the spirit of caring for our city — echoing our belief that we are stronger when we move together as one. We don’t need titles to make a difference. All it takes are willing hands and hearts that sincerely care,” said Mayor Gasataya.
The operation gathered around 400 personnel from various offices, including the Bacolod Environment and Natural Resources Office (BENRO), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), City Engineer’s Office, and the Traffic Management Office.
Efforts were focused on clearing and declogging the river in Barangay Banago, a waterway that has long contributed to the area’s drainage and flooding problems.
As of this writing, Mayor Gasataya continued to encourage residents to actively participate in maintaining the cleanliness of their surroundings, emphasizing that community cooperation is vital to preventing future floods./PN
