METROPOLITAN Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicholas Torre III on Wednesday called for public discipline in solid waste disposal after a massive buildup of garbage in the Pasig River forced the temporary suspension of the Pasig River Ferry Service.
In an advisory, the MMDA said ferry operations were temporarily suspended on Tuesday, May 19, due to a severe increase in the volume of garbage in the river, which stalled several boats and caused malfunctions.
“It’s really infuriating when a few undisciplined people make life difficult for so many others. A single plastic thrown anywhere, when combined, clogs esteros, worsens flooding, disrupts traffic flow, and puts entire communities in danger,” Torre said.
The MMDA official said clean-up operations alone are not enough to address recurring flooding and garbage problems in Metro Manila.
“The real battle is discipline and accountability. As long as there are Filipinos who think ‘it’s OK to throw garbage here,’ we will keep returning to the same problem,” he said.
Torre added that cleanliness, flooding and traffic problems are not solely government concerns but also reflect public discipline and responsibility.
“If we want an orderly city, we must learn to become responsible even when no one is watching,” he said.
