The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), in coordination with the Valenzuela City Government, conducted a cleanup operation recently as part of the agency’s Bayanihan sa Estero program —an initiative launched by President Bongbong Marcos Jr. aimed at reducing flooding through the removal of garbage and silt from waterways.
MMDA General Manager Undersecretary Nicolas Torre III and Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian personally led the cleanup efforts at the Kalabingkoho River in Barangay Malanday, with support from the MMDA Flood Control and Sewerage Management Office (FCSMO).
The activity focused on clearing accumulated garbage and silt along the Kalabingkoho River, which spans an estimated two kilometers, to improve water flow and help mitigate flooding in nearby communities.
Torre emphasized that, under the leadership of Chairman Atty. Don Artes, the MMDA remains committed to rehabilitating major waterways across Metro Manila.
“This initiative underscores the importance of well-maintained waterways in flood prevention.”
“Upon the instruction of Chairman Artes, the agency has set a target to rehabilitate 25 major esteros or more by 2026, with the goal of completing key projects before the rainy season. This initiative underscores the importance of well-maintained waterways in flood prevention,” he stressed.
For his part, Gatchalian highlighted the importance of the Bayanihan sa Estero program for Valenzuela City, especially in areas bordering Meycauayan.
“When water levels rise, the flow of water toward MacArthur Highway is often obstructed, directly affecting communities along the Valenzuela–Meycauayan boundary,” the mayor said.
“By deepening and widening it, we help ensure that it does not exceed its capacity during heavy rainfall.”
“We are working together to continuously clean and maintain the creek. By deepening and widening it, we help ensure that it does not exceed its capacity during heavy rainfall,” he added.
The Bayanihan sa Estero program continues to be implemented across Metro Manila in partnership with local government units, promoting environmental stewardship while strengthening flood prevention and disaster preparedness measures.
