Iloilo city: The massive cleanup of waterways kicked off in this highly urbanized city with the launch of the "Oplan Kontra Baha" on Tuesday. A total of 70 Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced (TUPAD) beneficiaries were tapped to undertake the cleaning of waterways or major creeks along Barangays Ticud, Baldoza, Ingore, Caingin, Tabuc Suba, Banuyao, and Hinactacan in La Paz district for 31 days. The workers will receive a daily wage of PHP550 from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Raisa Tre±as expressed gratitude to DOLE for recognizing the needs of Iloilo City, particularly in the flood-prone La Paz district. She emphasized the importance of maintaining clean floodways and waterways to ensure the smooth flow of water. The initiative's first phase is a collaboration between DOLE, the Department of Public Works and Highways, and the city government, focusing on La Paz, with plans to expand to the Jaro district in the second phase.

Iloilo City General Services Office head Niel Ravena stated that the launch site was chosen because of significant garbage accumulation in the area. The project aims to clear the Jaro River to prevent obstructions in the drainage system. Once the river is cleared, waste traps will be installed at all boundaries of La Paz to collect waste and trace its sources. Ravena mentioned that 12 waste traps will be installed in the downstream and upstream areas of Barangays Ticud, Baldoza, Hinactacan, Caingin, and Tabuc Suba.