The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reminded the public that plastic bottles and plastic bags, when thrown away on the streets, take years to decompose.
The agency encouraged the public to reuse and recycle in order to reduce waste and prevent clogging of waterways. The MMDA also urged the public to participate in promoting proper waste management to minimize garbage and reduce the occurrence of flooding in the metropolis.
MMDA chairman Don Artes said garbage thrown on the streets end up clogging canals, drainage systems and waterways that caused floods.
He asked the public to stop throwing garbage on the streets to allow waters to flow, especially rainwaters, to prevent massive flooding during the rainy season. Those trash include plastic bags, cups and bottles, styrofoam, and leftover food.
Artes reiterated his call on the people to exercise discipline in managing their trash properly, or “it will be a never-ending cycle.”
Heavy downpour brought floods and traffic on major thoroughfares in Metro Manila, mainly due to canals and drainage systems full of garbage, according to the MMDA.
To address the issue of flooding, the MMDA also launched the Metro Manila Flood Management Project in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways and local government units in the capital region.
The project aims to modernize 36 existing pumping stations, construct 20 new ones, and improve infrastructure along critical waterways in cities such as Manila, Pasay, Taguig, Makati, Malabon, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Pasig, Valenzuela, Quezon City, and Caloocan.
Flood mitigation programs and initiatives will be carried out in identified flood-prone areas in Metro Manila.
