MMDA retrieves 600 tons trash
MMDA recovers over 600 tons of trash due to floods in Metro Manila. Tropical Cyclone Crising and the Southwest Monsoon (Habagat) devastated Metro Manila, prompting authorities to retrieve over 600 tons of garbage from pumping stations and flooded communities.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) collected 526.8 tons of trash from pumping stations between Friday and Tuesday. From Monday to Tuesday, MMDA teams also cleared 76.92 tons of garbage from flooded areas.
The MMDA recovered heavy waste, including old furniture, broken refrigerators, vehicle tires, and fallen tree trunks, during cleanup operations.
“When plastics are sucked into the pump, they get coiled in the engine, causing overheating. This affects the pumping stations’ efficiency and can lead to damage,” said MMDA Chairman Romando Artes.
Drainage System, Declogging, and Dredging Efforts
Artes urged the development of a drainage master plan to upgrade Metro Manila’s aging infrastructure and prevent frequent urban flooding.
“We must upgrade and expand the existing drainage network and build new pumping stations,” Artes said, adding that all 71 pumping stations are currently operating at full capacity.
MMDA teams declog and dredge Metro Manila waterways to prevent flooding and improve drainage during the rainy season.
MRT-7 Inspection: Addressing Root Causes of Flooding
Artes inspected the MRT-7 Batasan Station to identify flooding causes and support cleanup efforts in Quezon City.
“The inlet was reduced from its original size of 3 meters by 3 meters to just 2 feet by 2 feet. We aim to widen the existing steel-grating drop inlet to better intercept floodwaters from IBP Road,” he explained.
Officials from San Miguel Corporation (SMC) and Quezon City local government also participated in the inspection to coordinate long-term flood mitigation strategies.
