The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has begun clearing operations near the collapsed river wall in Navotas City.
The river wall in Barangay San Jose recently collapsed, leading to significant flooding in several communities.
Members of the MMDA Metro Parkways Clearing Group (MPCG) demolished several abandoned houses and structures left by residents on Tuesday, July 1, after the collapse of the privately-owned river wall. The team also cleared trash from the area.
MMDA Chairman Romando Artes directed the MPCG, led by its director Francis Martinez, to carry out the clearing operations in response to the local government’s request following the collapse, which was attributed to rising sea levels and flooding.
The clearing team exercised caution while demolishing the structures, as some parts were still attached to the remaining sections of the wall. Additionally, some sandbags that had been stacked as a temporary barrier against the water also gave way.
Artes said the MMDA staff in Navotas City will continue to provide assistance until the area is deemed safe for residents.
At least 16 families were evacuated, and residents were relocated to two evacuation centers after the wall’s collapse. The city government provided food, basic necessities, and medications, including doxycycline to prevent leptospirosis.
Two families have been relocated to Naic, Cavite, while the others are awaiting in-city housing.
The wall was damaged, with floodwaters reaching heights of up to two meters. One of the six families awaiting relocation was at a wake when the wall collapsed, but with the assistance of passersby, they were able to transport their loved one safely.
