The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) launches a pilot project to replace nearly three kilometers of conventional sidewalks along C-5 Road in Pasig City with water-absorptive pavement, a move aimed at improving pedestrian access while helping mitigate flooding.

The Nature-Based Sidewalk Improvement Project covers the stretch from Ortigas Avenue to Barangay Bagong Ilog, where existing concrete sidewalks will be replaced with permeable paving materials designed to allow rainwater to seep into the ground instead of flowing directly into drainage systems.

"Rainwater will be allowed to pass through the pavement instead of immediately flowing into drainage canals. It will first be stored in rainwater catchment facilities, helping reduce surface runoff, puddling and the risk of urban flooding," MMDA Chairman Romando "Don" Artes said.

According to the MMDA, the upgraded sidewalks will feature permeable pavement, landscaping and, where feasible, underground stormwater detention tanks as part of a broader effort to incorporate nature-based solutions into urban infrastructure.

The permeable pavers are manufactured from crushed recycled glass and hard plastics processed at the MMDA's Integrated Solid Waste Management Processing Facility at the Vitas Pumping Station.

The agency said the materials support its waste diversion program while providing durable pavement capable of withstanding heavy traffic and adverse weather conditions.

The project was launched in partnership with the Pasig City government following the local government's request for assistance in rehabilitating the sidewalks.

The MMDA expects the project to be completed within six months.

If successful, the agency said it plans to implement similar sidewalk upgrades in other local government units across the National Capital Region.