The Metro Manila Council (MMC), through the proposal of a lawmaker, is set to implement a Garbage Single Ticketing System to strengthen enforcement of solid waste management regulations and promote uniformity among local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila.
The proposal was made by Las Piñas City Congressman Mark Anthony Santos, who emphasized the need for a unified system of penalties and enforcement against improper waste disposal.
Santos said a single ticketing system would help establish a more coordinated approach to enforcing waste management rules across the metropolis.
“We need a unified and consistent system that will make enforcement more effective while reminding our constituents that proper waste disposal is a shared responsibility.”
“We need a unified and consistent system that will make enforcement more effective while reminding our constituents that proper waste disposal is a shared responsibility,” the legislator said during the Metro Manila Council meeting held today at the MMDA Headquarters in Pasig City.
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Atty. Don Artes welcomed the proposal, noting that stronger and more harmonized enforcement could help reduce the amount of garbage reaching waterways and drainage systems, which can contribute to flooding.
“The proper management of solid waste is not only an environmental concern but also a critical part of our flood mitigation efforts. We support initiatives that will strengthen discipline, harmonize enforcement, and encourage every Metro Manila resident to take responsibility for their waste,” Artes said.
Also tackled during the press briefing was the ₱5,000 anti-littering fine across all LGUs, while Municipality of Pateros imposes a ₱2,500 penalty. Those who fail to pay may be required to render community service. The initiative depends on the passing of local ordinances.
Meanwhile, San Juan City Mayor and MMC President Francis Zamora reiterated the importance of developing an Integrated Drainage Master Plan among Metro Manila LGUs to address flooding through a coordinated, region-wide approach.
“Flooding does not stop at city or municipal boundaries.”
“Flooding does not stop at city or municipal boundaries, making it necessary for us, LGUs, to work together in planning and improving drainage systems, waterways, pumping stations, and other flood-control infrastructure,” Zamora explained.
Artes said that the MMDA is already working closely with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on efforts related to drainage and flood management.
“The MMDA and DPWH are already working together on this. We are continuously reviewing our flood-control and drainage systems to determine what needs to be improved and upgraded,” he said.
Zamora also requested assistance from the MMDA in conducting regular dredging operations along the San Juan River, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the waterway’s capacity and improving water flow, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall.
The council also discussed the government’s ongoing proposed waste-to-energy initiatives, which aim to explore ways of converting waste into usable energy while reducing the volume of garbage that ends up in landfills.
During the meeting, DPWH Undersecretary Emil Sadain also presented the proposed Parañaque Spillway Project, a flood-control initiative intended to improve the conveyance and discharge of excess floodwaters and help reduce flooding in vulnerable areas.
