The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Valenzuela City government have started cleaning the Kalabingkoho River to reduce flooding in Metro Manila by removing garbage and silt from the waterway.

MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III and Valenzuela City Mayor Weslie Gatchalian led the cleanup on Thursday in Barangay Malanday, with support from the MMDA Flood Control and Sewerage Management Office.

The cleanup covers an approximately two-kilometer stretch of the river and forms part of the MMDA’s “Bayanihan sa Estero (Bayanihan)” program, launched under the administration of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to improve water flow and mitigate flooding in flood-prone communities.

In an interview, Torre said the MMDA remains focused on rehabilitating key waterways across Metro Manila.

“Upon the instruction of Chairman [Romando “Don”] Artes, the agency has set a target to rehabilitate 25 major esteros or more by 2026, to complete key projects before the rainy season. This initiative underscores the importance of well-maintained waterways in flood prevention,” he said.

Gatchalian said the program is especially critical for Valenzuela City, particularly in areas near Meycauayan, Bulacan.

“When water levels rise, the flow of water toward MacArthur Highway is often obstructed, directly affecting communities along the Valenzuela–Meycuayan boundary,” he said.

The Bayanihan program continues to be rolled out across Metro Manila in coordination with local government units.

“We are working together to continuously clean and maintain the creek. By deepening and widening it, we help ensure that it does not exceed its capacity during heavy rainfall,” he said.