President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has welcomed San Miguel Corporation (SMC) President Ramon Ang’s offer to help address flooding in Metro Manila through a large-scale cleanup of waterways.
Marcos said the plan involves extensive desilting to clear clogged drainage systems in the capital. However, Ang reportedly asked that local governments commit to proper waste management as a condition for the assistance.
The president noted that Ang had presented the proposal to him earlier, and he responded positively, citing the success of other projects undertaken by the SMC chief.
Marcos stressed the importance of collaboration between the government and the private sector, saying initiatives like Ang’s should be valued.
He also pointed to an existing waste-to-energy project in the City of Manila as a possible model for other flood-prone areas in Metro Manila and other urban centers.
“Our administration is open to all offers of help,” Marcos said.
The government has been exploring ways to address Metro Manila’s recurring flood problem, which worsens during the rainy season. Officials say clearing waterways and improving waste disposal are critical steps to preventing severe flooding in the region.
