METRO MATTERS

By MAYOR FRANCIS ZAMORA

Every rainy season, the streets of San Juan City — and the rest of Metro Manila — are no strangers to flooding. But beyond the inconvenience and property damage, there’s a silent danger lurking in these floodwaters: Leptospirosis, a life-threatening bacterial infection that we can no longer afford to ignore.

Leptospirosis, spread through water contaminated by the urine of infected rats, can quickly turn fatal if left untreated. This disease is not just an abstract threat — it’s a growing reality that puts countless lives at risk, particularly during heavy rains when floodwaters rise.

Recognizing this threat, San Juan City isn’t just waiting for another outbreak — we are taking decisive action. Through City Ordinance No. 34, Series of 2024, we’ve launched a hardline approach to keep our residents safe by banning all unnecessary activities in floodwaters. This means no more swimming, playing, or any form of ‘fun’ that could cost you your health — or even your life.

Why this tough stance? Because leptospirosis doesn’t discriminate. Whether you’re a child splashing around or an adult wading through knee-deep water, you’re putting yourself in harm’s way. This ordinance isn't about taking away your freedom; it's about protecting you from a danger you can’t see but can certainly feel once it's too late.

To make sure this ordinance is more than just words on paper, San Juan City is rolling out strict penalties. For minors caught breaking the rules, a first-time warning will be issued, but subsequent violations will result in a ₱500 fine, escalating to ₱1,000 for repeated offenses. For adults, a first-time warning will be issued as well, but subsequent violations will result in a ₱1,000 fine, escalating to ₱2,000 for repeated offenses. There’s no room for complacency — everyone needs to take this seriously.

But let’s be clear: This isn’t just about penalties. Education is our strongest weapon. The City Health Department, alongside our Barangay Health Workers, is on the ground, actively running campaigns to make sure every resident understands the real dangers of leptospirosis. This isn't just another health warning; it’s a matter of life and death.

Proper solid waste management is also essential in the fight against leptospirosis. Piles of unmanaged waste attract rodents, the primary carriers of the disease. By strictly managing and reducing our waste, we limit the habitats and food sources for these pests. Less waste means fewer rats, and fewer rats means there will be less chances of leptospirosis spreading. This goes far beyond just keeping our surroundings clean; it’s about protecting lives. Proper waste disposal is one of the most powerful tools we have to stop the spread of this disease at its source.

San Juan City’s initiative is part of a larger movement across Metro Manila. Backed by the Metro Manila Council (MMC) headed by yours truly, Mayor Francis Zamora as president, and supported by NCR mayors and MMDA Chairman Don Artes, we enacted MMDA Regulation No. 24-003, Series of 2024 which reinforces our collective stance against unnecessary floodwater activities. This isn’t just a citywide effort—it’s a region-wide commitment to safeguard our communities from preventable diseases.

Floodwaters may seem like a temporary inconvenience, but the health risks they carry can have lasting consequences. By working together, we can prevent the spread of leptospirosis and protect our communities. San Juan City is leading the charge, but the real power lies in each resident’s hands. Follow the ordinance, stay informed, and do your part in keeping our city safe.

We’re not asking you to avoid floodwaters for our sake; we’re asking you to do it for yours. Because when it comes to health, there’s no room for compromise.