TO STRENGTHEN its efforts against urban flooding, the Cebu City Council has approved amendments to a 2006 ordinance requiring rainwater conservation measures for developments in the city.
In a statement released on the Facebook page of the Cebu City Public Information Office under the “Know Your Law” posting on Friday, June 20, 2025, City Ordinance 2670, authored by Councilor Rey Gealon, amends Section 12 of City Ordinance 2103, known as “An Ordinance Establishing a Water Conservation Program and Prescribing Penalties for Violation Thereof.”
The amendment was unanimously passed during the regular session of the 16th Sangguniang Panlungsod on Nov. 16, 2022, and approved by Mayor Michael Rama on Dec. 1, 2022.
The amended ordinance increases penalties for non-compliance, targeting owners or administrators of lands and buildings who fail or refuse to construct rainwater tanks, reservoirs, or cisterns as required by the law.
Key Amendment Highlights:
• Stronger penalties for non-compliance;
• Imprisonment from six months to one year;
• A fine of P5,000, subject to the court’s discretion;
• Administrative sanctions introduced; and
• Cancellation or revocation of business permits for violators.
These changes mark a significant escalation from previous
penalty provisions.
Originally enacted in 2006, City Ordinance 2103 requires rainwater catchment systems for structures in subdivisions and commercial, industrial, institutional and government developments.
Officials said the amendment responds to Cebu City’s rapid urbanization and the urgent need to revisit existing environmental safeguards. Councilor Gealon emphasized that the revision ensures stricter implementation of the ordinance and supports long-term flood mitigation efforts in the city.
Background
On Nov. 13, 2022, Gealon also filed a resolution proposing the creation of a water resources committee to address issues in water supply and conservation efforts. He cited the proposed increase in water rates by the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) as a pressing concern.
Gealon said the committee would help the City proactively find solutions, such as building dams or considering desalination technology. He stressed that securing a sustainable water supply is vital not just for flood control but also for public health.
The MCWD had earlier conducted a public hearing on its plan to hike tariffs by 60 percent. Gealon pointed out that while national agencies are involved, local governments must also take the lead in crafting long-term water resource solutions. / CDF