The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Thursday organized a meeting with various government agencies, local executives, members of the academe, and the private sector to discuss the Metro Manila Drainage Master Plan (MMDMP).
MMDA Deputy Chairman Usec. Frisco San Juan Jr. and MMDA General Manager Procopio Lipana stated that the primary goal of this initiative is to enhance the current drainage infrastructure and mitigate flooding issues in the National Capital Region.
During the meeting, the MMDA, in collaboration with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), presented ongoing projects, programs, and the overall direction of the master plan.
The discussions also included suggestions and recommendations based on historical data and future scenarios.
These presentations will serve as reference points and guidance for agencies and local government units in Metro Manila to expand and increase the capacity of the existing drainage system.
Key topics covered in the meeting were land use, urbanization, and climate change within the master plan.
Additionally, there were discussions about upgrading flood monitoring and early warning notification devices, utilizing modern technology, and creating an inventory and database of all drainage systems, among other pertinent subjects.
Representatives from various organizations attended the meeting, including the Department of Interior and Local Government, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, Laguna Lake Development Authority, Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, UP Resilience Institute, Project Noah, World Bank Group, Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, Woodfields Consultancy, Schema Konsult, and Metro Manila LGUs.
The MMDMP is set to be integrated into the Metro Manila Flood Management Project, which aims to minimize flooding in Metro Manila.
MMDA Chairman Don Artes acknowledged that the drainage system in the metropolis is outdated; most drainage mains were constructed in the 1970s.
He also pointed out that the agency regularly conducts declogging and desilting of drainage laterals as well as dredging of waterways.
However, he emphasized that addressing flooding issues requires not only government flood management projects but also public discipline in waste management efforts.
