MANILA — To address the escalating flood issue in the metro, the MMDA is scheduled to host its Oplan Kontra Baha Summit.

In a broadcast interview on state-run PTV, MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III stated that they had already held preliminary meetings to discuss flood solutions with the DPWH and San Miguel Corporation.

“Marami tayong speakers at stakeholders diyan, pati private entities kasali diyan,” said Torre.

The meeting is scheduled to take place at the DPWH Central Office on Thursday, February 5.

According to Torre, they will also discuss penalties for people who dump trash into rivers.

Academic experts are expected to attend the meeting.

According to Torre, LGUs have action officers tasked with coordinating with MMDA to make sure all of their action points are in line.

In order to ensure that these facilities are working, he also severely mandated that all pumping stations undergo preventive maintenance.

MMDA Chairman Romando Artes emphasized that flooding remains one of the capital region’s most persistent problems, worsened by climate change, heavy rainfall, clogged waterways, and improper waste disposal.

Key topics to be discussed during the summit include drainage maintenance, estero and river desilting, solid waste management, and the use of early warning systems. The MMDA will also present updated flood-prone area maps and contingency plans for major roads and low-lying communities.

LGU representatives are expected to share best practices and challenges in flood management, while experts will provide insights on long-term infrastructure solutions and climate-resilient urban planning.

The MMDA reiterated that flood prevention is not solely a government responsibility and called on the public to actively participate by properly disposing of waste and reporting clogged drainage systems.

Aside from the summit, the MMDA said regular clearing operations, declogging of drainage systems, and 24/7 monitoring of flood control facilities will continue under Oplan Kontra Baha. The agency also assured the public that traffic management teams will be on standby during heavy rains to assist motorists and commuters.

The MMDA is expected to announce the exact date and venue of the summit in the coming days.

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