THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and representatives from the World Bank met to discuss updates on the status of activities initiated by the MMDA under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project (MMFMP).
The group visited first the Vitas Pumping Station in Tondo, Manila, where MMDA project proponents presented the operational process of the Solid Waste Granulator and Brick Making Facility. This technology converts solid waste to reusable by-products like eco-bricks, eco-hollow blocks, eco-concrete barriers, and bio-waste compost materials.
The inspection team then proceeded to Pateros to witness the Market and Collection Day for the Mobile Materials Recovery Facility (MMRF) Activity dubbed as “Recyclable Mo, Palit Grocery Ko” held in Brgy. Sto. Rosario Kanluran, Pateros.
The activity showcased how residents can trade their recyclables for commodities. Residents gain points by surrendering recyclable materials, which they can use to redeem grocery items. All participating residents are then provided an Ecosavers Passbook, where all points earned and redeemed are recorded.
MMDA Chairman Atty. Romando Artes and MMDA General Manager and Deputy Chairman Frisco San Juan Jr. then met with MMFMP project proponents led by Assistant General Manager for Planning and MMFMP Overall Project Manager Asec. Jose Campo, plus representatives from the Project Management Office, Solid Waste Management Office, Flood Control and Sewerage Management, and World Bank partners represented by its Lead Irrigation Engineer Joop Stoutjesdijk to discuss project updates and progress of MMFMP.
“The Metro Manila Flood Management Project Phase 1 that aims to reduce flood vulnerability of Metro Manila is on the right track. Amid the continuous increase of waste generated in the metropolis, the MMDA shall continue pursuing initiatives and technologies that improve solid waste management in the metropolis. We are committed to working together with the concerned agencies to achieve a Metro Manila that is more resilient to floods,” Artes said.
The MMFMP is the Phase 1 of the implementation of the Metro Manila Flood Management Masterplan that aims to reduce the vulnerability to and strengthen resilience against floods. It is a joint venture of the MMDA and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) under the financial grant of the World Bank Group – International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB).
MMDA is in-charge of the implementation of the MMFMP’s Component 4, Project Management, Support and Coordination, and Component 2 or Minimizing Solid Waste in Waterways, which aims to improve solid waste management in barangays surrounding the pumping stations that will ultimately help maintain the efficiency of pumping stations.