CENRO Task Force personnel conduct clearing operations at an estero in Barangay Baclaran, Parañaque City, after garbage was washed into the waterway during high tide (Photo courtesy of Parañaque PIO)
The Parañaque City government has intensified clearing operations in Barangay Baclaran after garbage washed into an estero during the high tide on Tuesday morning, Aug. 25, compounded by the continuing effects of the southwest monsoon (Habagat).
Mayor Edwin Olivarez said the cleanup operation was conducted by the City Environment and Natural Resources Office (CENRO) Task Force to remove the accumulated waste and prevent it from further obstructing the waterway.
Olivarez said the latest buildup of garbage was not necessarily generated within the area, as the waste was carried from other locations and deposited in the estero when the tide rose.
A 1.21-meter high tide was recorded in Metro Manila on Tuesday morning, prompting the city government and its partner agencies to closely monitor waterways, particularly those in flood-prone areas.
The clearing operation was conducted in coordination with the Aseana Business Park Estate Association, Inc. (ABPEA) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA).
The mayor said the operation is part of the city government’s continuing efforts to keep waterways clear and ensure the unimpeded flow of water during periods of heavy rain and high tide.
Olivarez reminded residents and establishments to properly dispose of their garbage and refrain from throwing waste into esteros and other waterways, warning that accumulated trash could obstruct drainage and worsen flooding.