Manila Mayor Isko Moreno ordered cleanup operations beneath Katuparan Bridge in Tondo after garbage piled up along the waterway following days of heavy rains brought by the southwest monsoon, or Habagat.
Personnel from the Manila Department of Environment and Public Services (DEPS) District 1 Task Force cleared floating waste and debris as part of efforts to keep waterways open and address sanitation concerns.
The operation was among several cleanup drives conducted across Manila after the Habagat rains raised water levels and pushed accumulated trash into esteros, canals and drainage channels. City workers also cleared other areas affected by garbage buildup to restore water flow and reduce obstructions.
Moreno highlighted the cleanup in a post, saying,
“Linis agad, bago pa maging problema. Para iwas peste, iwas sakit, at higit sa lahat, ligtas ang ating mga kababayan. Tuloy-tuloy lang po tayo sa paglilinis ng Maynila.”
The city government continues to conduct cleanup and declogging operations as garbage buildup remains a recurring problem during heavy rains. Local officials have identified improper waste disposal as one factor that can worsen flooding by blocking waterways and drainage systems.
Manila observes a mandatory citywide cleanup and declogging every Saturday. Under Executive Order No. 3, all 896 barangays are required to simultaneously clean streets, canals and waterways to help prevent flooding and improve sanitation.
Authorities continue to remind residents to properly dispose of waste as cleanup operations continue across affected areas. The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said Wednesday it is awaiting local ordinances to strengthen enforcement of the ₱5,000 littering penalty.
MMDA Chairman Romando Artes said the Metro Manila Council has approved the ₱5,000 fine for littering across Metro Manila cities.
