Navotas floodgate rehab sought

MANILA, Philippines — Restoring Navotas’ flood control system and building a second floodgate should be studied by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), according to Navotas Rep. Toby Tiangco.

At yesterday’s Kapihan sa Manila Bay forum, Tiangco said the Navotas floodgate has suffered repeated damage, with the last incident reported in May amid heavy rains.

Authorities declared the floodgate fully operational again on Aug. 15.

“This floodgate is already 20 years old. It’s mechanical so it can break down anytime. That’s why we need a backup,” Tiangco said.

Signs of mechanical strain were ignored before the floodgate malfunctioned in May, he noted.

Tiangco blamed the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) for lapses in monitoring and maintenance.

Garbage disposal

Meanwhile, increasing fines for irresponsible garbage disposal will be discussed by the Metro Manila Council.

MMC president and San Juan Mayor Francis Zamora said the proposed adjustment would strengthen the enforcement of waste management policies across Metro Manila.

Violators currently face fines of up to P5,000.

At yesterday’s “Bayanihan sa Estero” cleanup and dredging operation at Lambingan Bridge, two truckloads of garbage were collected by MMDA personnel and volunteers from civil society and private groups.

MMDA Chairman Romando Artes, Quezon City Mayor Joy Belmonte and Zamora led the activity.