Iloilo City Mayor Jerry Treñas’ recent pronouncements holding the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) accountable for the persistent flooding in the city raise important questions about leadership and accountability.
While the DPWH undoubtedly has a significant role in managing the city’s drainage and flood control systems, it is crucial to remember that Treñas himself has been at the helm of the city’s governance for over two decades, both as a mayor and a congressman.
When Treñas first ran for mayor more than 20 years ago, he promised comprehensive solutions to the city’s most pressing problems, including flooding, economic development, and other social issues.
Yet, the recent flooding incidents suggest that these promises have not been fully realized. The mayor’s criticisms of the DPWH, while valid to an extent, seem to deflect from the broader issue of leadership responsibility.
As a congressman for nine years, Treñas worked closely with the DPWH in reclassifying major city roads to national roads—achievements he has often touted as legacies.
However, with these legacies comes the responsibility to ensure that infrastructure projects, including flood control measures, are effectively implemented and maintained.
The supposed failure of the DPWH to address the city’s flooding problem could also be seen as a reflection of a leadership issue on Treñas’ part, as he has been in a position to influence and oversee these projects for years.
Both the city government and the DPWH share the blame for the city’s flood woes—one for not pushing hard enough despite years of being in power and the other for a perceived lackadaisical attitude toward critical infrastructure needs.
It’s not enough to point fingers when the lives and properties of residents are at stake. What the city needs now is decisive action and cooperation between the local government and national agencies, with the mayor leading by example.
As Iloilo City continues to grapple with flooding, residents should hold their leaders accountable not just for their promises but also for their actions—or lack thereof.
The responsibility to protect the city from the ravages of floods does not rest solely on the shoulders of the DPWH; it begins with the highest official of the city, who must ensure that all stakeholders are doing their part effectively.
The time for passing the buck is over. It’s time for real leadership that takes ownership of the city’s challenges and works tirelessly to overcome them.
