Manila: Malaca±ang on Tuesday called for greater public and barangay-level action against improper waste disposal after a massive volume of garbage clogged waterways in Metro Manila amid heavy rains and triggered widespread flooding. Palace Press Officer Claire Castro said the 'sea of trash' was a major factor hampering the flow of floodwaters, underscoring the need for both government intervention and public cooperation.

According to Philippines News Agency, Castro highlighted during a Palace briefing that President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has repeatedly called for proper waste management. However, she stressed that government efforts to clear waterways would have limited impact if residents continued dumping garbage indiscriminately. Castro emphasized that while the government cannot work tirelessly without public support, all citizens must take responsibility and act to prevent the worsening waste situation.

Castro urged village officials to enhance enforcement against illegal dumping, suggesting the use of closed-circuit television cameras to identify violators. She advocated for stronger enforcement measures, including penalties for improper waste disposal, to prevent garbage from accumulating in waterways. Castro warned that the neglect of proper waste management would ultimately lead to adverse consequences for everyone.

The government has been conducting clearing and dredging operations in flood-prone waterways amid the continuing effects of the southwest monsoon and recent tropical cyclones. In addition to these efforts, President Marcos has pushed for a waste-to-energy program that would process garbage for power generation. This initiative is part of broader efforts to address the country's waste management problem and reduce the volume of waste reaching the waterways.