DENR urges LGUs to boost solid waste management as Habagat rains persist

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) on Thursday called on local government units (LGUs) to strengthen their solid waste management program as tons of garbage are collected amid the continuous rains and flooding by the Southwest Monsoon or Habagat.

DENR Secretary Juan Miguel Cuna reminded LGUs that it's important to keep waterways clear from any blockage to reduce flood risks this rainy season.

"Habagat is a natural phenomenon, but the waste that ends up in waterways is something that can be prevented,” he said in a statement.

The enhanced Habagat caused continuous heavy rains over Metro Manila and parts of the country in the past days.

The Quezon City Department of Engineering conducted pumping operations along E. Rodriguez Avenue near Araneta Avenue.

The DENR also intensified its cleanup operations in several waterways and coastal areas in the capital region following days of heavy rains and floods.

The Environment department said that it is monitoring the solid waste management plans and facilities of local government units, in compliance with the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act of 2000.

"Every piece of waste kept out of our waterways is one less obstruction to drainage and one less piece of pollution that can reach our rivers, coasts and seas," said Cuna.

The Metro Manila Council (MMC) announced it will implement a unified penalty system against improper waste disposal. The council also mulled imposing a ₱5,000 anti-littering fine across Metro Manila local government units, except in the Municipality of Pateros, where the penalty is set at ₱2,500. —VAL, GMA News