By Perfecto T. Raymundo, Jr.
QUEZON CITY — Manila Water has suspended its excavation activities in major thoroughfares within the East Zone of Metro Manila in compliance with the government resolution in preparation for the Christmas season.
It can be recalled that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has released Memorandum Circular No. 15 Series of 2023, which orders the temporary suspension of road works in major roads in Metro Manila, such as road re blocking, pipe laying and road upgrading activities as part of the efforts to alleviate the congested traffic during the Holiday season.
Despite this, Manila Water assured its customers that water service will remain 24/7, and the water company will still be prompt in responding to their water supply and sanitation needs and concerns, as activities related to the installation of new water service connections and the conduct of emergency leak repairs are exempted in the said memorandum.
The water firm will also continue to support the implementation of government flagship projects which are also exempted from MMDA’s moratorium.
Manila Water is currently undertaking pipe relocation and replacement works along EDSA corner J.P. Rizal Street, Orense in Makati City and in Cubao, Quezon City to give way to the construction of the Department of Transportation’s EDSA Greenways Project Package 1.
Funded by the Department of Transportation (DoTr) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the EDSA Greenways Project involves the building of five kilometers of covered elevated pedestrian walkways around mass transit stations in Balintawak, Cubao, Guadalupe and Taft, along EDSA, to improve existing walkways for pedestrians and commuters and to enhance accessibility.
The government is currently fast tracking the project, which is slated to be completed in 2027.
“These initiatives show our commitment not only to provide the best services to our customers, but also to help the government in speeding up and pursuing worthwhile projects for the benefit of the public, and to contribute to the growth of the economy as well,” said Manila Water Corporate Communication Affairs Group Director Jeric Sevilla.
