Manila: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is set to construct more and wider inlets in flood-prone areas of Metro Manila to facilitate the rapid flow of rainwater into the drainage network. This initiative aims to prevent street-level flooding and keep main thoroughfares passable during heavy downpours.

According to Philippines News Agency, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon announced plans to commence work on major roads in the National Capital Region (NCR) once weather conditions improve. During an inspection of the newly widened drainage inlets along EDSA Estrella southbound in Makati City, Dizon emphasized the priority of addressing flood-prone areas.

The recently expanded inlets along EDSA (Guadalupe-Estrella), which have been enlarged from 0.5 meters to 1.5 meters, serve as a case study for similar improvements in other low-lying roads across the region. Dizon stated that the approach has proven effective and will be implemented on national roads throughout Metro Manila, particularly in flood-prone areas.

The priority areas identified include Quezon City, Pasay, Makati, Caloocan, Pasig, and Manila. Specific locations mentioned are Camp Aguinaldo, Camp Crame EDSA, Santolan EDSA, Quezon Avenue, Balintawak EDSA, Tramo EDSA, low-lying sections of C-5, frequently flooded parts of Commonwealth, Roxas Boulevard, and Araneta.

Dizon also highlighted the need for standardized inlet sizes on wide national roads, such as C-5, EDSA, and Commonwealth Avenue, to ensure optimal efficiency in rainwater drainage.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has directed the DPWH to replicate the enlarged drainage inlets installed along the southbound section of EDSA (Guadalupe-Estrella), which have significantly improved water flow into canals, mitigating flood-related challenges for motorists.