San Juan City is turning to advanced technology to address its persistent flooding problem, with Mayor Francis Zamora announcing plans to utilize Project NOAH for mapping the city’s blocked waterways and drainage systems.
“One of our problems is that former waterways have been built over by structures, so if we do not intervene, the flooding problem will just keep coming back every time there is heavy rain,” Zamora said during a briefing following discussions with University of the Philippines Diliman officials.
The mayor explained that when natural water channels are obstructed, rainwater cannot flow freely, resulting in recurring floods during heavy downpours. By employing Lidar-equipped drones and terrain-mapping tools from Project NOAH, the city aims to pinpoint old waterways, underground drains, and areas that require urgent intervention, rather than relying on random dredging operations.
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Targeted Measures and Regional Coordination
Zamora highlighted that the city has been actively clearing blockages and relocating residents to safer areas, including sites under the Pambansang Pabahay para sa Pilipino Program, to facilitate drainage rehabilitation. He added that the city is implementing drainage improvements in coordination with the Department of Public Works and Highways.
Though only 2 kilometers of the 9.8-kilometer San Juan River pass through the city, Zamora noted that San Juan remains downstream, receiving floodwaters and debris from upstream areas. He also mentioned that the river connects to the Pasig River, where restricted water flow in certain sections can trigger backflow during heavy rains.
Without a scientific approach and targeted interventions, Zamora warned, flooding will continue to affect interconnected creeks and communities across the city.
Reassessing the Drainage Systems
Zamora, who also heads the Metro Manila Council (MMC), emphasized the need to reassess drainage systems across the National Capital Region.
“Ang drainage system sa Metro Manila luma na. Kailangan talaga aaralin talaga ang ating drainage system at gumawa ng isang masterplan na kakayanin yung population, current volume ng ulan, climate change, [at] problema ng basura,” he shared in a radio interview.
Citing Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, he noted that each person generates about one kilo of trash daily. “Kung 15 million tayo sa Metro Manila, that’s 15 million kilos ng trash daily,” Zamora said, adding that improper disposal into rivers, creeks, and drains contributes heavily to clogging and flooding.
“May mga drainage system na tinayuan ng bahay and ibang structures. Kailangan talaga i-imbentaryo lahat ng drainage system,” he added, stressing the importance of a full inventory to guide long-term solutions.
By applying science-driven mapping and coordinated planning, San Juan’s approach could reduce flooding risk, improve community safety, and serve as a model for other Metro Manila cities struggling with similar drainage and waste challenges.
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