Manila gov't, DPWH to launch España Boulevard flood projects
By Hannah Nicol
The Manila City government and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) are set to launch flood‑mitigation projects along España Boulevard and other flood‑prone areas in the capital.
Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon inspected España Boulevard on Thursday, July 30, to map out measures to ease perennial flooding.
Plans include upgrading drainage systems, leveling roads, building detention basins, installing four cross‑grade drains, expanding inlets, and placing trash traps to keep waterways clear.
Dizon said a large catch basin will also be built in Earnshaw, Sampaloc, to improve water flow and help ease flooding along España Boulevard.
The cross-grade drainage systems will be connected to the Earnshaw, Uli-Uli, Aviles, and Valencia pumping stations in Manila.
Dizon said the intervention is expected to begin in September.
The DPWH and the Manila City government advised the public to prepare for possible heavy traffic and temporary inconvenience once rehabilitation works begin.
Domagoso assured residents and motorists that the temporary disruption is intended to provide a long-term solution to flooding in the area.
“Dadaloy din ang ginhawa (Relief will also flow),” the mayor said.
Officials said the projects are part of broader efforts to improve the city’s drainage system and provide safer, more passable roads for motorists and commuters.
Meanwhile, the DPWH continued clearing operations in flooded areas across Metro Manila amid rains brought by a low-pressure area.
Maintenance crews conducted manual clearing operations along parts of Taft Avenue in Manila; Acacia Lane, the EDSA-Ortigas intersection, and Boni Avenue in Mandaluyong City; and Imelda Avenue in Pasig City.
The DPWH said floodwaters in the affected areas subsided following the operations.
DPWH personnel remain on standby around the clock along major roads in Metro Manila to help ensure the safety of motorists and commuters during the rainy season.