The Metro Manila Council (MMC) on Sunday called for a comprehensive reevaluation of the capital region’s drainage system, citing its age and inadequacy in addressing persistent flooding.

“The drainage system in Metro Manila is old,” the MMC said. “We need to truly study our drainage system and craft a master plan that can handle our population, current volume of rain, climate change, and problems with garbage.”

Citing Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, the MMC cited that each person in Metro Manila generates approximately one kilogram of trash daily.

“If we’re 15 million in Metro Manila, that’s 15 million kilos of trash daily,” the MMC said, highlighting that much of this waste ends up clogging rivers, creeks, and drainage systems, exacerbating flooding.

The council also pointed out that some drainage systems have been built over with houses and other structures, emphasizing the need for a complete inventory of all drainage systems.

Last week, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority reported over 500 flood incidents across Metro Manila within a 24-hour period due to heavy monsoon rains and a low-pressure area.