MANILA – The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has declogged 60% of drainage systems in Metro Manila as of December 27, 2025, as part of intensified preparations for the rainy season and ongoing flood control efforts. DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon reported the progress during a briefing, emphasizing the agency’s aggressive desilting and cleaning operations to reduce urban flooding risks in the National Capital Region (NCR).
The declogging covers main arteries, laterals, and outfalls across 17 cities and municipalities, with priority on flood-prone areas like Quezon City, Manila, Pasig, and Makati. Dizon noted that the 60% accomplishment translates to thousands of linear meters cleared of silt, garbage, and debris—equivalent to removing hundreds of truckloads of waste.
Ongoing Efforts and Targets
- Daily Operations: Over 1,000 personnel and heavy equipment deployed round-the-clock.
- Full Target: 100% declogging by March 2026, ahead of peak rainy months.
- Complementary Works: Installation of new manholes, grates, and pumping stations; integration with larger flood projects.
This push follows criticisms in the P20-billion scandal probe, where “ghost” or substandard drainages were flagged. Dizon stressed transparency: “Every declogged section is documented and geo-tagged for public verification.”
While residents in low-lying areas report minor improvements in water flow during recent rains, advocacy groups call for sustained maintenance to prevent re-clogging from illegal dumping.
The DPWH’s 60% milestone offers cautious optimism: Clearer drains for a less flooded metro—if momentum holds.
Declogging Progress Snapshot:
| Metric | Status (as of Dec 27, 2025) |
|---|---|
| Completion Rate | 60% of NCR drainages |
| Priority Areas | Quezon City, Manila, Pasig, Makati |
| Full Target | 100% by March 2026 |
| Personnel Deployed | >1,000 daily |
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