Localized cleanup operations have actively intensified to prevent heavy rainfall and southwest monsoon (habagat) flooding, with local CENRO teams and river rangers focusing on desilting and removing solid waste in flood-prone zones across the country . The government has recognized the potential impact of the southwest monsoon, which may coincide with a Super El Niño, prompting agencies to accelerate preparations and reinforce disaster resilience measures . These initiatives emphasize that flood prevention is a collective responsibility requiring community-wide participation.
Cleanup Efforts in Metro Manila and CALABARZON
In Metro Manila, the MMDA's "Bayanihan sa Estero" program systematically removes garbage and silt from 23 priority esteros to reduce obstructions and improve drainage flow . The DENR also conducts routine waste collections, including recent operations along the Pasig River .
In Cavite, local authorities have intensified street and drainage sweeping as a core flood mitigation strategy . Noveleta established the Mayor's Auxiliary Force (MAF) Task Group to lead canal cleaning across all barangays, with a particular focus on flood-prone areas . Mayor Davey Reyes Chua emphasized, "This is not just the government's responsibility. We are calling on every Noveleta resident to cooperate" . Calamba City has also issued directives for regular cleaning of roads and waterways in preparation for the habagat.
Multi-Sectoral Collaboration and Regional Monitoring
The Metro Pacific Tollways South convened its first Flood Mitigation Forum, bringing together national agencies and LGUs to strengthen collaboration on flooding concerns in CALAX and CAVITEX communities . Cavite Governor Francisco Gabriel "Abeng" Remulla was among the key leaders who provided insights during the forum, which highlighted the impact of improper waste disposal on low-lying areas .
In Central Visayas, Cebu City has doubled its efforts in desilting, drainage clearing, and flood-control measures . Several teams from various city offices and partner agencies have been deployed to different barangays, removing silt, garbage, and debris to restore water flow. As the Office of Civil Defense noted, "Effective flood mitigation depends heavily on good governance... Participation is essential, as community involvement strengthens ownership and improves the relevance of mitigation measures" .
