DENR collects over 1,200 sacks of waste in NCR waterways cleanup drive

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) has intensified its cleanup operations in several waterways and coastal areas in the National Capital Region (NCR) following days of heavy rains and floods due to the southwest monsoon or Habagat.

On Monday, August 17, the DENR-NCR and other environmental volunteers collected approximately 1,225 sacks of mixed solid waste from 27 sites following the day's downpour.

"Clearing these blockages helped reduce the risk of further inundation and limited downstream transport of debris during the heavy rains. Pero, ang tamang pamamahala ng basura bago pa ito makarating sa daluyan ng tubig is the long-term solution," said DENR Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna in a statement.

(Clearing these blockages helped reduce the risk of further flooding and limited the spread of downstream debris during the heavy rains. But proper waste management before garbage enters our waterways remains the ultimate long-term solution.)

The department said a network of trash traps were installed in drainage channels and creeks to catch wastes and debris to prevent them from going downstream.

Out of 196 regional trash-trap sites, Manila City holds the highest count at 55. It is followed by Quezon City (28), Caloocan (16), Mandaluyong (14), Marikina (12), and Pasig (12), with remaining installations spread across other cities and Metropolitan Environmental Office deployable units.

Metro Manila Council president and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora earlier said the public's discipline can help address solid waste management problems in the Philippine capital.

Several areas in Metro Manila have been dampened in the past days due to the continuous rains by the Habagat. The flooded areas left numerous residents and commuters, including minors and college students, stranded and unable to reach home. — VDV, GMA News