Manila: The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has completed early preparations for the rainy season and the upcoming school year opening, with flood control operations and personnel deployments to schools already underway.
According to Philippines News Agency, MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III shared in a Rise and Shine Pilipinas interview over PTV that the agency began its rainy season preparations months ahead of the June rains. The focus has been on clearing waterways of obstructions and ensuring that pumping stations are operational. Torre emphasized the importance of maintaining a quick flow of water through unobstructed waterways.
MMDA teams have been actively working on declogging and desilting drainage systems, removing blockages, and inspecting waterways for illegal settlers who might need to be displaced. Rescue equipment has also been pre-positioned in anticipation of potential emergencies.
Regarding pumping stations, Torre mentioned that these facilities are under regular maintenance, with several units already repaired. Among the repaired facilities is the Vitas pumping station, which had been affected by a motor stoppage due to garbage buildup.
For the upcoming school opening, the MMDA has been coordinating with local government units (LGUs) and the Department of Education (DepEd). The "bayanihan" brigades are already underway, with the agency upgrading necessary facilities near schools, such as road markings, traffic lights, and side exits.
Torre highlighted that MMDA personnel will be deployed to all schools in Metro Manila, prioritizing those along major thoroughfares and in densely populated areas. He also noted the effectiveness of the agency's five-minute response protocol for road incidents, urging the public to report road incidents via the MMDA hotline 136.
Additionally, Torre provided updates on the Yes to Ayos campaign, aimed at promoting waste discipline and community cooperation. The campaign is set to be rolled out in several cities following its launch in Malabon and Pateros, addressing garbage issues that contribute to flooding and traffic problems in Metro Manila.
