Ninoy Aquino International Airport’s (NAIA) flooding problem is finally getting a serious fix.
NAIA Infra Corp. (NNIC), the private operator of NAIA, has already removed 139,158 metric tons of waste and silt from waterways around the airport, a big step toward long-term flood prevention, according to the company in a statement.
With support from San Miguel Corporation’s Better Rivers PH cleanup teams, about three kilometers of river channels have been cleared, including parts of the Parañaque River near Barangay Tambo, Don Galo River, and Villanueva Creek near Barangay La Huerta, reported NNIC.
Since taking over NAIA’s operations in September last year, NNIC has made flood control a top priority. Aside from clearing waterways, it’s also upgrading drainage systems and making sure rainwater flows out faster.
“The initiative is already showing results as water drains more quickly, with less buildup during heavy rains,” it said.
More improvements are on the way, including a modern drainage system, flood barriers, and a stormwater pumping facility to keep the airport flood-free.
“Protecting NAIA from flooding is a long-term investment in safety and reliability,” stated NNIC President Ramon S. Ang.
He also called on the community to pitch in by keeping streets and waterways trash-free.
“We’re putting in the infrastructure needed to keep the airport flood-free, but we also need the public’s help…We can only succeed if we all do our part,” he emphasized.
