The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) identified 49 flood-prone areas across the National Capital Region (NCR), as heavy rains and infrastructure challenges continue to affect traffic and safety during the rainy season.
In a press briefing, MMDA chairman Romando Artes listed key locations repeatedly affected by flooding, including G. Araneta Avenue, Banawe Avenue, EDSA near Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City, Maysilo Circle in Mandaluyong, España Boulevard and Taft Avenue in Manila.
“Talaga pong mababa ‘yung lugar na ‘yun,” Artes said, referring to the intersection of Banawe and N.S. Amoranto. “Doon naiipon galing sa taas sa QC—kailangan talaga kung makikita niyo apat na pumping station ang nakapalibot sa area… talaga pong volume dahil masyado siyang mababa para i-pump-out ang basura.”
Artes noted that aside from natural topography, some government projects may have also contributed to the worsening floods. He pointed to the dolomite beach project along Manila Bay, which he said led to the closure of three stormwater outfalls—Faura, Remedios, and one other outlet in Ermita.
“Nu’ng ginawa ang dolomite beach… sinaran itong tatlong outfalls na ito. In-intercept… ‘yung tubig ay pinadaan sa sewerage treatment plant para paglabas ng tubig ay malinis. Ang observation lalo pag tag-ulan ay hindi kayang i-convey kaya naiipon,” he explained.
The ongoing construction of the MRT-7 line has also contributed to the aggravation of floods and traffic, particularly along Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City.
“Yung poste ng MRT-7 na ginagawa… nakaharang siya doon po sa isang drainage… kaya hindi agad nakalabas yung tubig,” said Artes, referring to the delays in drainage flow that resulted in gridlock during recent downpours.
To address long-term flooding problems, the MMDA is coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to construct additional pumping stations. A proposal to build a water impounding facility inside Camp Aguinaldo is also being finalized.
Currently, MMDA manages and maintains 71 pumping stations across Metro Manila, but Artes said more are needed to match the growing demands of urban flood control and worsening climate conditions.
