Malacañang on Thursday urged the public to actively take part in proper waste management and community cleanup efforts, acknowledging that civic discipline plays a crucial role in reducing the risks of flooding especially during the rainy season.
In a Palace press briefing, Presidential Communications Office (PCO) Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer Claire Castro called on Filipinos to stop improper waste disposal and become part of the solution.
“Asahan niyo po na kikilos ang gobyerno para sa inyo. Pero sana rin po, kumilos din po kayo,” Castro said. She emphasized that flood prevention requires both government intervention and public cooperation.
Castro highlighted that many low-lying and urban areas continue to experience flooding not solely due to heavy rainfall, but also because of clogged waterways and drainage systems caused by uncollected or improperly discarded garbage.
“Minsan po tayo rin po ang nagiging dahilan kung bakit mabilis bumaha sa ating lugar. So maglinis po tayo,” Castro said.
Castro appealed to residents in flood-prone communities by stressing the importance of personal responsibility in addressing the recurring issue.
“Para sa taumbayan, iwasan na po natin magkalat. Magtapon ng mga basura sa mga lugar na mas madalas na bahain. Huwag po nating itapon ang basura ng walang responsibilidad,” Castro said.
Castro urged Filipinos to look out for each other, particularly during times of increased vulnerability caused by natural disasters.
“Iyon lang po, sana makatulong po kayo sa bawat isa,” Castro said.
Malacañang reaffirmed its commitment to flood mitigation through infrastructure development and coordination with local government units, but emphasized that these efforts would be more effective with grassroots support and community engagement. | PND
