Cebu Councilor Urges Halt to SRP Flood Control Project Over Legal and Community Concerns

Cebu City Councilor Pastor "Jun" Alcover Jr. has called on the Office of the Mayor to suspend the ongoing flood control or road extension project at South Road Properties (SRP) until all legal protocols and procedural requirements are fully met.

In a resolution submitted to the City Council, Alcover highlighted concerns over the project proceeding without mandatory consultations with key stakeholders, including fisherfolk, local residents, and urban poor communities residing along the SRP coastline.

Alcover emphasized, "Proper coordination with concerned agencies, both national and local, remains insufficient, raising issues of transparency, accountability, and due process in project implementation."

The resolution was deliberated during an executive session of the council on August 19, 2025, where members questioned the legitimacy of the project, describing it as "questionable" due to its bypassing of certain procedural standards.

According to Alcover, the lack of community engagement infringes on the rights of those directly affected by the development, while the inadequate collaboration between government bodies undermines the project's transparency and accountability.

While acknowledging the value of infrastructure improvements like flood control and road expansion, the resolution insists such initiatives must conform strictly to legal frameworks and respect the welfare of impacted communities.

It stresses that large-scale projects ought to fulfill not only technical criteria but also involve inclusive consultations where residents and other stakeholders are informed and given opportunities to express their views.

Alcover warned that failing to observe these requirements risks causing displacement, loss of livelihoods, and environmental damage to the SRP vicinity.

As a vocal advocate for greater oversight of significant city undertakings, Alcover has repeatedly pressed for enhanced transparency and responsibility in public works execution.

He stated that pausing the SRP project even temporarily is essential to prevent legal complications and to protect the rights of vulnerable populations.

"This approach ensures the City Government operates within the bounds of the law while safeguarding marginalized communities," Alcover remarked.