THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has identified the Dolomite Beach project in Manila as the primary cause of persistent flooding along Taft Avenue.
MMDA Chair Don Artes said three major drainage outfalls—Faura, Remedios, and Estero San Antonio Abad—were closed when the Manila Baywalk rehabilitation project was implemented, forcing rainwater to be rerouted through a nearby sewerage treatment plant.
“Noong ginawa ‘yung Dolomite Beach, sinara itong tatlong outfall at pinadaan sa sewerage treatment plant. Kapag tag-ulan, hindi nito kayang ilabas ang tubig, kaya naiipon sa Remedios–Taft Avenue area,” Artes explained.
He said the treatment plant cannot handle the volume of rainwater during heavy downpours, causing water to back up and flood nearby streets.
The MMDA said it has initiated talks with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to temporarily open the sealed drainage outfalls during the rainy season to help improve water flow.
“Hindi namin sinasabing mali ang proyekto, pero kailangan talaga ng solusyon para sa daloy ng tubig lalo na sa panahon ng tag-ulan,” Artes added.
The agency is also working with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to identify long-term solutions to improve Manila’s drainage system.
