The local government of Malabon City has ramped up sandbagging efforts as repairs to the Navotas-Malabon Navigational Gate continue.
City officials said the sandbagging activities aim to reduce the risk of flooding in riverbank and coastal areas of Malabon, particularly with the onset of the rainy season.
At least 505 sandbags were placed by the Malabon City Engineering Department in the barangays of Hulong Duhat, Ibaba, Tañong, and San Agustin. The majority were deployed in Barangay Hulong Duhat, specifically along the river wall in Gabriel 2 Subdivision and along the Talabahan Riverwall.
The Malabon Public Information Office noted that aside from Barangay Hulong Duhat, minor flooding has also been reported in Barangays Flores and San Agustin. These floods typically occur during high tide and do not last the entire day.
The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported that repairs to the damaged navigational gate are expected to be completed by the second week of June.
In addition to sandbagging, the City Engineering Department and the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) have conducted declogging operations along major roads, alleys, waterways, and drainage systems to prevent further flooding.
Malabon City Mayor Jeannie Sandoval assured residents that flood prevention and response efforts will intensify as the rainy season approaches.
“We are closely monitoring the repair of the damaged navigational gate, which was caused by a mechanical issue,” she said. “As the rainy season approaches, we will strengthen our programs to ensure the safety of our residents.”
Last month, Mayor Sandoval also distributed food and relief packs to over 1,000 residents in flood-affected areas of Barangay Hulong Duhat.