The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has constructed two larger inlets near the MRT-7 Batasan Station along Commonwealth Avenue to improve drainage and mitigate persistent flooding.

In a statement, the MMDA identified the previous water entry point, measuring just one square foot, as a primary cause of flooding in the area during last week’s monsoon rains.

According to MMDA chairperson Don Artes, the two new inlets each measure 2 by 3 meters.

These new inlets are fitted with grates designed to allow water to pass through while filtering out trash and debris. Artes cited that the current steel grates are temporary and will be replaced with more robust, fabricated versions capable of withstanding heavy vehicle traffic, including trucks.

He also expressed hope that the newly built inlets will effectively address the flooding problem during future heavy rains.

Should flooding recur due to an MRT-7 post obstructing the main outlet, Artes assured the public that mobile pumps are on standby. These pumps will channel water into the nearby Ilang-Ilang Creek.

“It is because a post was blocking the major outlet in the area, causing it to be choked, thus we will install a pump to guide the water towards the creek and hopefully it could be sufficient to address the flooding problem in Commonwealth,” Artes said.

The MMDA chief personally inspected the new inlets Monday morning as he disclosed that the larger inlets were constructed with the assistance of the Department of Public Works and Highways, MRT-7 management, and the local government of Quezon City.