The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is strongly urging the public to reduce, reuse, and recycle to minimize waste and prevent clogged waterways, which contribute to flooding in Metro Manila.
MMDA chair Romando Artes said residents can help create cleaner communities and improve quality of life by adopting simple recycling habits.
He added that participating in local recycling programs also fosters responsibility toward sustainable practices.
“Reducing waste through recycling is essential, as clogged waterways are a major cause of flooding in the National Capital Region,” Artes said.
He also encouraged households to adopt more eco-friendly practices in their daily lives.
The MMDA has partnered with the Recyclers Association of the Philippines to expand its “Recyclables Mo, Palit Grocery” project, where residents can exchange recyclables for grocery items using points recorded in an Ecosavers Passbook.
In recent Mobile Materials Recovery Facility operations, the agency collected 143 kilograms of recyclables in Barangay Rosario, Pasig City; 377 kilograms in Barangay 813, Manila; 732 kilograms in Barangay Alabang, Muntinlupa City; and 439.5 kilograms in Barangays 178 and 179, Pasay City. The MMDA Solid Waste Management Office also conducted education campaigns on proper waste management.
Artes reminded the public to stop littering, particularly with plastic bags, cups, and bottles, to allow rainwater to flow freely. “Even if the MMDA conducts regular cleaning and declogging operations, if people continue to throw garbage, the problem of flooding will not end,” he said.
