INQ FILE PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said on Wednesday that flood mitigation programs and initiatives are underway in flood-prone areas in Metro Manila.
In a press briefing held after a coordination meeting with representatives from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and local government units in Metro Manila, MMDA Chairperson Romando Artes provided status updates on several flood prevention projects in the region.
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According to Artes, three pumping stations have been constructed and are expected to address flooding problems in some areas of the City of Manila.
“Installation of power supply is ongoing at the pumping stations in Remedios and Abad, and is set to be completed by June, while the one in Padre Faura is nearing completion and will be turned over to the agency by July,” said Artes.
If the pumping stations are deemed insufficient, Artes stated that the MMDA and Department of Environment and Natural Resources have agreed to open the floodgates of the sewerage treatment plant in Manila Bay to allow floodwaters to flow freely from submerged areas.
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Flooding on España Boulevard is also expected to be reduced by the Sunog Apog Pumping Station, which is currently being constructed along San Diego Street.
Furthermore, the DPWH is eyeing the construction of four pumping stations at Tatalon, Dona Imelda, and Roxas District to address flooding along Araneta Avenue in Quezon City.
Artes said these projects are expected to be completed in two to two and a half years.
He added that the construction of a series of detention ponds is being proposed inside Camp Aguinaldo.
Additionally, the MMDA may also cover the cost of repairing one of the pumps at a station in Mandaluyong to expedite its repair and address flooding in Maysilo Circle.