Way, way back in pre-pandemic 2019, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority shared photos of the tons of garbage clogging the waterways around Manila City. Back then, we said that it wasn’t a surprise that areas like España are so prone to flooding. Now, six years later, it appears not a lot has changed.
But this time, we look to G. Araneta, another notoriously flood-prone area in the metro. As you may know, there’s an off-ramp located on that avenue coming in from Skyway Stage 3. Last night, tollway operator San Miguel Corporation shared that while some of the floods have subsided, this off-ramp (Maria Clara) will remain closed. Why? Well, the photos should tell you all you need to know.
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There’s still flooding around the at-grade section in this area, and who’s to say that the upcoming rains won’t hamper clearing activities? Heck, further downpours could even worsen the situation, considering just how much junk has been carried around by the floods. That said, SMC did clarify that all of its expressways—including the rest of SLEX and Skyway, STAR Tollway, and TPLEX—are passable.
SMC also shared that it has been supporting cleanup efforts by the MMDA and the Quezon City Government, who have full jurisdiction of clearing up waterways in this area. But as you can see in these images, it’s easier said than done to remove heaps of garbage like these. It’s absolutely disgusting, but these photos also serve as a reminder to everyone that these floods are also a result of our own irresponsible behavior. Dispose of your trash properly and don’t litter, and maybe then some of these floods could be avoided.
