The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) conducted a cleanup operation at the Lambingan Bridge, San Juan River, in San Juan City.
MMDA Chairman Don Artes and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora led the clean-up efforts under the agency’s “Bayanihan sa Estero” program which focuses on systematically removing accumulated wastes from esteros and rivers across Metro Manila.
The program is part of the MMDA’s response to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s socio-economic agenda, which aims to strengthen the country’s disaster resilience and clean up drainage infrastructures to prevent flooding in Metro Manila.
According to Artes, the MMDA conducts regular clearing operations of Metro Manila’s drainage systems which include declogging laterals, dredging waterways, removing silt from drainage mains, and eliminating accumulated solid waste that clogs the waterways and causes flooding.
“Our personnel use heavy equipment to haul garbage, especially in desilting and dredging, to deepen and increase water carrying capacity during heavy rains,” the MMDA chief said.
“This clean-up drive seeks to reinstate the natural flow of waterways, reduce flooding, and foster environmental sustainability and accountability throughout Metro Manila.”
“This clean-up drive seeks to reinstate the natural flow of waterways, reduce flooding, and foster environmental sustainability and accountability throughout Metro Manila,” he added.
The agency deployed backhoes, cranes, and dump trucks for the cleanup and dredging operations.
Mayor Francis Zamora extended his gratitude to MMDA for bringing the services of Bayanihan sa Estero in his city which will benefit his constituents.
“As the San Juan River is considered downstream, the water quickly overflows and floods our area during heavy rains. Also, San Juan City has 113 barangays which are low-lying areas and adjacent to the San Juan River that are always affected by floods, so these clean-up efforts greatly help our city,” Zamora explained.
“San Juan City will set up more pumping stations to manage water resources.”
“Personnel also installed trash traps, which serve as barriers to prevent the flow of garbage thrown into the waterway. San Juan City will set up more pumping stations to manage water resources,” the mayor added.
Artes and Zamora urged the public to cultivate discipline and responsibility in promoting proper waste management.
Also, some Miss Earth Philippines candidates joined the activity and promoted the critical initiatives of having cleaner cities and greener practices, sharing their commitment to a healthier environment and a more sustainable future for the metropolis.
The activity was likewise joined by volunteers from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), ride-hailing apps Grab, Angkas, Joyride, Move It, and TUPAD beneficiaries.
