Over the weekend, many streets in Metro Manila were filled with floodwater. This happened because of the strong and nonstop rains brought by Tropical Storm Isang and local thunderstorms.
People who live and work in the busy metro are tired, frustrated, and upset because flooding makes their daily life really hard.
Floodwaters Everywhere – Even City Hall Was Hit
In Manila City, flooding got so bad that even the City Hall was affected. People passing by had no choice but to walk on top of metal railings and barriers just to avoid stepping into the dirty water.
Sadly, a senior citizen slipped and fell while trying to balance on the railings, according to a report from GMA’s 24 Oras Weekend.
Voices of the People – ‘We’re So Tired of the Floods’
Many residents shared their feelings:
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One man danced in frustration and said:
“Pagod na pagod na pagod na kami. Floods are such a hassle. And you can even get sick because of the dirty water.” -
Another worker explained:
“It’s so tiring. After work, I need to walk through floods just to get home. And when I arrive, my own house is also flooded.”
Why It’s Still Raining
Storm Isang hit northern Luzon last Friday, August 22, and left the country’s area on August 23.
But on August 24 (Sunday), rains still poured in Metro Manila because of localized thunderstorms, making the floods worse.
Government’s Response – DPWH Promises Help
Public Works Secretary Manuel Bonoan said his department, the DPWH (Department of Public Works and Highways), is already working on solutions. But he explained that fixing the flooding in Metro Manila is a big, complicated problem that requires everyone to work together.
Bonoan said:
“We need a holistic and complete approach. Flood problems cannot be solved by one fix alone.”
He added that the DPWH is:
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Repairing old pumping stations in places like Pasig and Marikina to push floodwater out faster.
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Helping with engineering solutions to improve drainage.
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Reminding everyone that trash and waste management is also a big cause of flooding.
Flood Control Funds and Corruption Issues
President Bongbong Marcos Jr. also reminded officials during his SONA last July that stealing public money, especially from flood control projects, is unacceptable.
He warned corrupt officials to feel ashamed, after discovering that 20% of the ₱545 billion budget for flood projects went to just 15 contractors, with 5 of them handling projects across the country.
Because of this, Secretary Bonoan hinted that there might be a “cleansing” inside the DPWH to remove officials who are not doing their jobs properly or are involved in corruption.
✅ In short:
Metro Manila is once again suffering from terrible floods after days of rain. People are tired and angry because it’s affecting their work, homes, and health. The government promises solutions, but corruption and poor waste management make the problem even worse.
