Two larger inlets were constructed by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) beneath the MRT-7 Batasan Station along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City to allow floodwaters to drain faster.

The agency said the previous water entry point in the area was too small and had been identified as the main cause of flooding along Commonwealth Avenue during last week’s monsoon rains.

According to MMDA Chairman Don Artes, the original inlet was only about one square foot in size. The two new inlets now measure 2 x 3 meters each.

The upgraded inlets are fitted with grating or crossbars forming a grid to allow water to pass while filtering out trash and debris.

Artes said the new inlets are temporary, especially the steel used, as more durable grates are still being fabricated. Once installed, the new system will be able to withstand heavy loads such as passing trucks.

He expressed optimism that the inlets will help solve the recurring flood problem when heavy rains pour again.

However, in case flooding still occurs due to an MRT-7 post obstructing the major drainage outlet, Artes assured the public that mobile pumps are on standby to divert the water to the nearby Ilang-Ilang Creek.

“It’s because a post is blocking the major outlet in the area, causing the chokepoint. That’s why we will install a pump to guide the water toward the creek and hopefully that will be enough to address the flooding problem in Commonwealth,” Artes said.

The new inlets were personally inspected by Chairman Artes on Monday morning.

He said the project was completed with support from the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), MRT-7 management, and the local government of Quezon City.