Managing Metro Manila

Metro Manila residents are confronted everyday with the challenges of flooding, substandard housing and horrendous traffic. In this low altitude plain, any significant rainfall raises water levels in many small streams, and contributes to traffic jams. The rapid population growth of the metropolis has led to the proliferation of squatter areas, including alongside flood-prone rivers and railroad tracks. The lack of discipline and of decent garbage management contribute in turn to a worsening of floods when streams are covered with litter. The fast rise in motorization rates, coupled with the many imperfections of the public transport system, make Manila one of the most congested cities in the world. Different possibilities to improving mobility are examined, from a reform of the bus system to the redevelopment of the Pasig River. Manila as a ``smart and green'' city appears as a distant dream only. The daily management of the metropolitan area, entrusted to the MMDA, is difficult due to the fierce independence of local mayors, The management perimeter of the megacity should be reevaluated to include suburban areas in adjoining provinces, due to urban sprawl and increasing commuting flows. Water management should include the entire watershed of the Pasig River and Laguna Lake.