Marcos launches Bayanihan sa Estero program to clean 23 priority esteros

On Saturday, President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. launched the Bayanihan sa Estero program in Pasig City to address flood impacts by cleaning 23 priority esteros identified for their significant siltation and waste buildup.

During the launch at Buli Creek, Marcos emphasized the importance of collaboration among national government agencies, local governments, and civil society organizations to ensure the success of the clean-up drive, noting that volunteers clearing the creek 'look like they are walking in water like Jesus Christ'.

The President also interacted online with volunteers cleaning Catmon Creek in Malabon City, Pinagsama Creek in Taguig City, Hagonoy Retarding Pond in Taguig City, and Tapayan Retarding Pond in Taytay, Rizal.

Marcos noted that extensive clean-up for 12 of the 23 priority esteros have already been completed to cushion the impact of floods brought about by unusual heavy rains, with a total of 881 cubic meters of garbage removed.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) serves as the lead coordinator and implementer of metro-wide estero cleanup, while concerned city or village authorities serve as partner implementers for mobilizing manpower and resources. The MMDA also plans to establish water detention tanks in various areas across Metro Manila to mitigate flooding.