The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) undertook preemptive anti-flood measures in partnership with local government units across the National Capital Region amid the rainy season
The MMDA and the Caloocan City government held on Wednesday a cleanup drive at Maligaya Creek adjacent to La Loma Cemetery Exit and San Pancracio Parish in Barangay 120.
MMDA General Manager Procopio Lipana said the cleanup efforts are part of the agency’s “Bayanihan sa Estero” program, a community initiative aimed at clearing accumulated garbage along esteros and canals throughout Metro Manila.
“The program dubbed ‘Estero ay Alagaan, Bayan ay Protektahan’ seeks to address major blockages that impede the natural flow of water. Through this initiative, we would be able to remove waste from drainage systems that could worsen flooding during heavy downpours,” said Lipana.
Lipana also appealed to the public to throw their trash properly to prevent massive flooding as the rainy season starts.
At least 24 dump trucks, or the equivalent of 48 tons of garbage, were collected from Maligaya Creek since last weekend, according to the MMDA Flood Control and Sewerage Management Office.
Among the waste gathered were plastic bottles, food wrappers, and all sorts of garbage thrown indiscriminately into esteros and creeks.
There are 273 creeks in the National Capital Region, with a total length of 570 kilometers.
Meanwhile, all 71 pumping stations managed by the agency are 100% operational and working at full capacity.
Caloocan City Administrator Aurora Ciego, for her part, thanked the MMDA for initiating and undertaking the cleanup operations.
Personnel from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) also participated in the cleanup drive.
