MMDA Targets 5 Rain Catchment Facilities in Metro Manila by Mid-2027

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Wednesday said it is eyeing the completion of the first five rain catchment facilities in the National Capital Region by the first half of 2027. Speaking at a Palace briefing, MMDA Chair Romando “Don” Artes said the facilities will be located at Camp Aguinaldo, Miriam College, and three other locations. “We are targeting the first five to be completed by the first half of 2027,” Artes said. He said that the MMDA is working on the project with other government agencies and private institutions. Artes said that the MMDA is also looking at other locations in Metro Manila for the construction of more rain catchment facilities. “We are still identifying the other areas where we can put up these facilities,” he said. Artes said that the MMDA is also coordinating with local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila to identify potential sites for the rain catchment facilities. “We are working with the LGUs to identify the areas that are most prone to flooding,” he said. Artes said that the MMDA is also looking at the possibility of using vacant lots and open spaces in Metro Manila for the construction of rain catchment facilities. “We are looking at all possible options to maximize the use of available spaces,” he said. Artes said that the MMDA is also coordinating with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to ensure that the construction of the rain catchment facilities will not interfere with other infrastructure projects in Metro Manila. “We want to ensure that there is proper coordination among all government agencies involved in infrastructure development,” he said. Artes said that the MMDA is also looking at the possibility of partnering with private companies for the construction of rain catchment facilities. “We are open to partnerships with the private sector to expedite the implementation of this project,” he said. Artes said that the MMDA is also looking at the possibility of using the rain catchment facilities for other purposes, such as recreational areas and urban gardens. “We want to make these facilities multi-functional to benefit the community,” he said. Artes said that the MMDA is also looking at the possibility of using the rain catchment facilities for rainwater harvesting. “We want to promote rainwater harvesting as a way to conserve water,” he said. Artes said that the MMDA is also looking at the possibility of using the rain catchment facilities for flood control. “We want to ensure that these facilities will contribute to the overall flood control efforts in Metro Manila,” he said. Source: Inquirer NewsInfo