Building resilience together through flood control and mitigation forum

Posted on March 7, 2025

On March 7, 2025, at the EVSU GS Function Hall, a significant milestone was achieved for Tacloban City as experts, advocates, stakeholders, community members, and representatives from PH Haiyan and the Eastern Visayas State University (EVSU) convened for a forum addressing the city’s flood vulnerabilities. This gathering served as a vital platform for diverse minds to unite, exchange ideas, and pool resources to ensure a safer, more flood-resilient future.

The forum also honored Tacloban’s journey of recovery following the devastation of Super Typhoon Yolanda, with the resilience of its people symbolizing hope and determination to rebuild both infrastructure and trust in a brighter future. The forum featured a distinguished roster of attendees, each contributing to the collaborative effort to tackle the challenges of flood control and mitigation. Their contributions highlighted the importance of teamwork and expertise in building resilience.

Dr. Dennis C. De Paz, EVSU’s University President, was represented by Dr. Analyn Españo, Vice President for Research, and Development and Extension Services. Dr. Españo reaffirmed EVSU’s dedication to research, community engagement, and instruction as essential pillars in building resilience. She emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change, aligning efforts with Sustainable Development Goal No. 13—Climate Action. Recognizing PH Haiyan’s advocacy, she also highlighted EVSU’s Learning Institute for Environment (LIFE), which focuses on disaster risk reduction and management.

Attorney Romell Antonio O. Cuenca, Deputy Executive Director of the Climate Change Commission, provided a national perspective on climate policies. He emphasized on the Philippines’ vulnerability, noting that climate change could cost the nation 7.6% of its GDP by 2030. Attorney Cuenca stressed the need for a unified, science-based approach and outlined the National Adaptation Plan as a strategic roadmap to mitigate climate impacts and reduce vulnerability.

The event also featured contributions from Mr. Petronilo Ilagan, Chairman of PH Haiyan, Hon. Alfred S. Romualdez represented by Ms. Janice Claire Canta of the City Planning Office, Dr. Eva Lopez from DENR RO8, and Engineer William Kent Gonzaga from DPWH RO8. Their insights on innovative strategies and technical solutions focused on the importance of inclusivity and public participation in flood mitigation efforts.

Civil society organizations including private businesses like Robinsons Tacloban, and groups such as the Tacloban Federation of Senior Citizens were also integral to the discussions. Together, they called for broad-based collaboration to create a safer, more sustainable Tacloban.

Throughout the forum, participants were reminded of their shared responsibility to develop data-driven, environmentally respectful strategies that address community needs. The forum emphasized long-term sustainability, envisioning a future where Tacloban thrives in harmony with nature.

This forum marks the first of several planned meetings and programs dedicated to mitigating flood risks in Tacloban. It represents the ongoing partnership between EVSU, PH Haiyan, and key stakeholders as they work together to build a safer, more resilient community.

With prayers for guidance, hope for innovation, and commitment to unity, the forum stood as a testament to Tacloban’s resilience and collective dedication to inspiring other vulnerable communities to rise above their challenges.