Manila: The Department of Environment and Natural Resources-National Capital Region (DENR-NCR) has successfully removed approximately 1,255 sacks of mixed solid waste from 27 cleanup sites following severe flooding caused by heavy rains on Monday. The cleanup effort was part of an initiative to clear clogged waterways and coastal areas of accumulating garbage and debris, which was critical for the rapid subsidence of floodwaters.
According to Philippines News Agency, the DENR-NCR reported that teams of estero (creek) rangers, river warriors, and partner organizations were instrumental in these operations. The agency emphasized the role of its extensive network of 196 trash-trap sites, which intercepted floating waste during the heavy rainfall.
The trash trap network, consisting of permanent and deployable barriers strategically placed in drainage channels and esteros, effectively captured a significant portion of floating waste before it could exacerbate blockages downstream. Manila leads with 55 installed trash-trap sites, followed by Quezon City with 28, Caloocan with 16, Mandaluyong with 14, and both Marikina and Pasig with 12 each. Additional sites are established across the region, with support from deployable units of the Metropolitan Environmental Office.
Environment Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna highlighted the importance of these clearing operations in reducing the risk of further flooding. He underscored that proper waste management should commence before waste reaches the waterways, noting that clearing these blockages helped mitigate further inundation and limited the downstream transport of debris during heavy rains.
Cuna urged residents and establishments to collect waste in designated areas and avoid sweeping or washing debris into drainage systems. He also advised the public to coordinate with local government units for the proper collection and disposal of bulky and flood-generated waste. Furthermore, the DENR-NCR called for strict adherence to Republic Act No. 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.
