Demolition of shanties blocking waterways in Metro eyed

Manila Mayor Lito Atienza is eyeing the demolition of all shanties along esteros, which block the waterways, causing flash floods submerging thoroughfares in floodwaters.

If the city government succeeds in removing illegal dwellers along esteros, Atienza hopes to prevent flash floods in the city next year.

"If we want genuine flood control measures, we should clear our esteros of shanties, which clog our waterways," Atienza said. He said the demolition of illegal structures would be implemented the soonest possible time.

Atienza noted that President Arroyo has given him the go signal to carry out the proposal to demolish all shanties along esteros. "I have the full backing of the President to implement the program."

The mayor, however, refused to reveal where the evicted families would be relocated, saying some squatters might take advantage of the situation and rush to the area.

Meanwhile, Quezon City Mayor Feliciano Belmonte Jr. yesterday ordered an inspection of all waterways in the city and verify the cause cause of floods.

Belmonte also ordered the release of P300, 000 in calamity fund to support hundreds of displaceds families in Quezon city.

City Treasurer Victor Endriga said the money will be used to repair facilities; and purchase equipment, medicines, and food for the displaced residents.

According to Belmonte, an inspection of the waterways was needed in order to identify the cause of floods.

In his instruction to the City Engineer’s Office, Belmonte noted that based on the reports he received, it appeared that the overflowing of the creeks in Novaliches, Araneta Avenue, Roxas, and Tatalon were caused by the narrow passageways into the San Juan River.

Despite the no-work declaration of the national government yesterday, Atienza mobilized city government personnel to conduct clearing operations and repair of roads damaged by heavy rains brought by typhoon Gloria.

Atienza, himself, cut with a chainsaw a rubber tree felled by strong winds on Rajah Sulayman Park on Roxas Boulevard in Malate, Manila. He was assisted by City Hall personnel and barangay officials.

"I want the situation restored to normal on Tuesday in time for the resumption of classes and the regular schedule of work," Atienza said in his directive to Magdiwang Recato, city engineer and Rafael Borromeo, chief of the Manila-Department of Public Services.

Atienza ordered the repair of roads in the city, damaged by floodwaters.

Cleanup crews were deployed to various parts of Manila to cut and remove fallen branches and tree limbs, which obstruct the flow of traffic.

Atienza directed rescue and disaster relief personnel of the Manila Department of Social Welfare to go around the city and distribute relief goods and evacuate residents affected by floods. – Katherine Adraneda