NAIA Terminal 3 parking lot (Photo courtesy of New NAIA Infra Corp)
San Miguel Corp. (SMC) is ramping up its cleanup operations around the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) complex as part of its ongoing efforts to mitigate flooding in the area.
Leading the consortium that operates the country’s primary gateway, SMC has been implementing the “Better Rivers PH” initiative, a project aimed at improving water flow and addressing persistent flooding issues affecting NAIA and its surrounding communities.
According to SMC’s latest report, the rehabilitation work in Parañaque City, including clearing flood drains near the airport, has covered 2.58 kilometers so far, removing approximately 129,862 tons of silt and solid waste.
However, SMC Chairman and CEO Ramon Ang emphasized that these efforts will be ineffective if coastal communities and other stakeholders do not commit to responsible waste disposal.
“These efforts would be for nothing if people continue to dispose of trash into rivers and on roads, where waste eventually gets washed into storm drains, creeks, and rivers,” Ang said in a statement.
He urged the public to strictly follow waste disposal regulations to prevent garbage from ending up in waterways.
The issue of flooding was highlighted in July 2024 when heavy rains caused water to accumulate on the apron of NAIA Terminal 4, disrupting operations.
Ang acknowledged that flooding has long been a challenge for both NAIA and Parañaque, particularly during typhoon season.
“Through the Better Rivers PH program, and with the support of government agencies, we have been able to implement sustainable solutions that we hope will bring lasting benefits to residents, businesses, and travelers,” he added.