Metro Manila Drainage Clean-Up Drive Begins
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. launched a critical drainage clean-up drive in Metro Manila this Saturday to unclog heavily silted waterways. These clogged esteros have long caused persistent flooding in the metropolis during the rainy season. The government’s focus on cleaning these waterways is part of a broader effort to mitigate flood risks and improve urban resilience.
The clean-up campaign, called the “Bayanihan sa Estero” Program, aims to finish work on 23 prioritized esteros. These waterways were carefully chosen because of their severe siltation, significant waste buildup, poor water flow, and frequent flooding problems. Their proximity to flood-prone communities further underscores the urgency of the project.
Flood Control Beyond Infrastructure
At the event held at Buli Creek in Pasig City, President Marcos stressed that flood control is not just about building physical barriers. “Malaking proyekto ito sa flood control. Hindi lang sa pagpatayo ng slope protection. Kasama na itong paglilinis,” he said. He added that adapting to climate change means tackling the root causes of flooding, including clearing waterways.
“Iyan ang aming ginagawa. Parang adjustment natin. Kailangan na talaga tayong mag-adjust sa climate change at kahit anong gawin natin, hindi natin mapipigilan ang tinatawag nating climate change,” Marcos explained, highlighting the need for proactive measures.
Collaborative Efforts for Cleaner Waterways
The President also called for strong cooperation among the national government, local government units (LGUs), and community volunteers to ensure the success of the drainage clean-up drive. “Kapag malinis ang mga estero, mabilis din mawala ang baha. Kaya naiiwan ang baha, dahil walang madaanan ng tubig. At tatagal talagang may tubig sa ating mga bahay-bahay lalung-lalo na ‘yung mga nakatira sa tabing creek natin,” he said.
According to local officials, clean-up work on 12 of the 23 priority esteros is already complete. These efforts have helped lessen flooding impacts during recent heavy rains. Data from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) shows that about 881 cubic meters of garbage were removed from these waterways.
Simultaneously, the MMDA organized clean-up drives at four additional locations: Catmon Creek in Malabon City, Pinagsama Creek and Hagonoy Retarding Pond in Taguig City, and Tapayan Retarding Pond in Taytay, Rizal. These parallel efforts demonstrate the wide scope of the initiative.
Ongoing Maintenance and Future Plans
The MMDA leads the overall coordination and implementation of the estero clean-up across Metro Manila. Meanwhile, local city and barangay officials help mobilize manpower and resources at the community level. The agency confirmed that regular maintenance visits will follow to keep these waterways clear and functional.
Currently, Metro Manila has 273 rivers, tributaries, esteros, and open canals serving as primary stormwater channels. The MMDA plans to monitor and schedule clean-ups for the remaining esteros to strengthen flood control and urban water management.
This long-term commitment aims to reduce flooding risks and improve the quality of life for residents living near these waterways.
For more news and updates on Metro Manila drainage clean-up drive, visit Filipinokami.com.
