Chairman Atty. Romando Artes of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, together with other concerned government agencies, led the cleanup of Tartar Creek in Barangay Pamplona Tres and Barangay Talon Dos in Las Piñas City as part of ongoing flood-mitigation efforts.

Artes, Department of Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon, and Las Piñas City Mayor April Aguilar inspected the results of the cleanup drive under the Bayanihan sa Estero program.

These joint efforts form part of the MMDA’s continuing initiatives in support of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s socioeconomic agenda to reduce obstructions, improve water flow, and mitigate flooding in Metro Manila.

The agency has intensified its cleanup operations across the region to clear waterways of debris and silt, improve drainage flow, and minimize flooding during heavy rains.

Artes said it is “s good to see the before and after situation of Tartar Creek” to ensure waterways are free from garbage and sediment, allowing rainwater to move more efficiently. He added that the cleanup helps reduce flood risks and enhances the health and safety of residents.

For his part, Dizon reaffirmed that drainage systems, pumping stations, flood-control structures, and water-retention facilities are part of a long-term strategy to protect Metro Manila and support its development.

“The DPWH will continue to work with MMDA and all LGUs to implement comprehensive and sustainable infrastructure projects designed to significantly reduce flood risks across the region,” Dizon said.

Mayor Aguilar expressed gratitude to the MMDA for bringing its cleanup operations to Las Piñas.

“We deeply appreciate the commitment of MMDA for their invaluable assistance in cleaning our creek and for standing with us in our efforts to build a cleaner, safer, and more resilient city,” Aguilar said. “This initiative not only helps restore the natural flow of our creeks but also reduces the risk of flooding in Las Piñas.”

The MMDA distributed lily pots and charcoal briquettes made from water hyacinths collected during the operation.

Artes also inspected the Paco pumping station with Manila Mayor Isko Moreno. A stop log is being installed by the DPWH as a temporary solution to the damaged floodgate, which has caused flooding in the Paco area, particularly in Barangay 827.

Moreno thanked the MMDA and DPWH for their immediate action.

The stop log will be completed in two weeks, while rehabilitation of the floodgate is expected to finish by mid-March 2026, according to DPWH.