MANILA, Aug. 12 (Xinhua) -- Massive volumes of garbage have clogged waterways and drainage systems in Metro Manila, the Philippines, following days of heavy rains, local media reported on Wednesday.
Public Works Secretary Vince Dizon described the problem as a "garbage crisis," noting that clogged waterways exacerbated flooding amid continuous rains brought by the enhanced southwest monsoon.
Much of the garbage was not from the immediate area but had been carried from Manila Bay, with high tide and floodwaters contributing to its accumulation around pumping stations, according to the reports.
At the Baclaran River, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III said clearing operations had so far hauled 45 dump truckloads, equivalent to about 500 tons of garbage, from the river since the operation started.
The government would continue clearing operations and dredging waterways to keep critical drainage infrastructure operational. The public were urged to refrain from throwing garbage into waterways, according to the reports. ■
