Manila: The government is mobilizing thousands of Tulong Panghanapbuhay sa Ating Disadvantaged/Displaced Workers (TUPAD) workers for an extensive cleanup and de-clogging operation across the National Capital Region, combining flood control efforts with emergency livelihood assistance as the rainy season intensifies.
According to Philippines News Agency, the initiative was discussed during a coordination meeting led by Executive Secretary Ralph Recto with officials from the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Transportation (DOTr), and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
The operation will focus on clearing drainage systems, esteros, rivers, and other critical waterways blamed for recurring floods in the capital region. Workers under the government's TUPAD program will be deployed to remove garbage, desilt heavily clogged waterways, and restore water flow in drainage channels ahead of the peak rainy months.
Recto emphasized in a news release, "We are addressing two problems at once here - flooding and livelihood," highlighting the dual purpose of the initiative. "While cleaning up the creeks, rivers, and drainage systems, we are also providing jobs to thousands of Filipinos," he added.
The move comes as the administration ramps up its anti-flooding campaign following the onset of the southwest monsoon, which has already brought intermittent heavy rains to parts of Luzon, including Metro Manila. The cleanup drive mirrors the government's recent use of TUPAD beneficiaries in Brigada Eskwela activities, where workers were tapped to repair and prepare public schools ahead of the June 8 opening of classes.
Officials stated that agencies are finalizing deployment numbers and coordinating with local government units to ensure immediate implementation. The Palace has repeatedly stressed that flood mitigation remains among the administration's priority concerns, with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. directing agencies to accelerate preventive measures, drainage rehabilitation, and waterway clearing projects to reduce the impact of flooding on communities and economic activity.
Labor Secretary Francis Tolentino, MMDA Chair Romando Artes, and senior officials from the DPWH and DOTr attended the planning meeting.
