MMDA assures ongoing efforts with 101 NCR flood control projects

The MMDA conducts cleaning operations across Metro Manila on Thursday, July 25 to clear debris from Typhoon Carina’s flooding. | PHOTO: MMDA

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday said it has been actively working on various flood control projects to address the problem of constant flooding in Metro Manila.

MMDA Acting Chairman Atty. Romando “Don” Artes said in a statement that the agency is working on an approved budget that includes P2.72 billion for flood control, P2.26 billion for capital outlay, and P395.57 million for the maintenance and operation of 71 pumping stations.

“The MMDA is working on the said budget to cover for the 101 projects across all NCR (National Capital Region) districts. As of July 2024, 56 are completed while 45 are ongoing,” Artes said.

The agency identified outdated, inadequate drainage systems and a limited budget for flood control projects as major reasons for the flooding in Metro Manila when the southwest monsoon and Typhoon Carina hit the region last July 24.

READ: Carina floods leave PH capital in state of calamity

Furthermore, Artes factored in high tide, high water levels, and improper waste management as several factors that also contributed to the problem.

Currently, the MMDA is operating 71 pumping stations across flood-prone areas in Metro Manila and has implemented the Metro Manila Flood Management Project to restore existing pumping stations and create new ones.

However, Artes stressed that effective flood control requires not only flood management projects by the government but also the public’s help in their waste management efforts.  — Arianne Denisse Cagsawa, INQUIRER.net intern