Personnel from the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) have been deployed to clean major waterways across Metro Manila in preparation for the rainy season and the increased threat of flooding.

As part of its proactive campaign, the agency launched the Bayanihan sa Estero program with the theme “Malinis na Estero, Pamayanan Protektado,” which runs from 21 May to 12 August 2025.

The MMDA’s Flood Control and Sewerage Management Office, under Director IV Engr. Baltazar Melgar, targeted 20 creeks and esteros across the 17 local government units in Metro Manila.

Over a span of three weeks, the cleanup operations yielded a total of 761 cubic meters of garbage, collected from these waterways. Heavy equipment, including crane backhoes on barges and trucks, was used to remove and transport the accumulated waste.

Residents along the waterways were urged not to dispose of garbage directly into creeks and to wait for designated garbage collection trucks. Barangay officials were also instructed to strictly implement waste segregation at the source and proper disposal protocols to prevent further clogging of drainage systems, especially during downpours.

MMDA emphasized that being proactive means ensuring that teams are deployed and ready to prevent garbage buildup in drainage lines during heavy rains.

Earlier, MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes appealed to the public to support the agency's efforts to address persistent flooding and garbage issues.

According to Engr. Melgar, all 71 pumping stations, both large and small, across the metropolis have been inspected and are fully operational. Personnel are closely monitoring these stations to ensure they function properly when heavy rains hit.