Severe Flooding in Metro Manila: Roads Impassable for Light Vehicles

MANILA, Philippines — On Sunday, July 20, 2025, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported significant flooding across various roads in Metro Manila, rendering them impassable for light vehicles. This flooding is attributed to the southwest monsoon combined with severe tropical storm Crising, which has affected the region's infrastructure and transportation systems.

According to MMDA's official statement, knee-deep floodwaters were recorded along Kalaw Street facing General Luna, while Taft Avenue, in front of the National Bureau of Investigation, experienced floodwaters reaching 13 inches at around 1:05 a.m. These conditions have raised safety concerns and disrupted daily commuting for residents and workers in the city.

The MMDA noted that although some areas experienced flooding severe enough to halt light vehicle passage, other locations remained accessible. Specifically, the Roxas Boulevard Service Road in front of UN Avenue, as well as sections between Salas and Pedro Gil streets, were reported to be gutter-deep in water but passable to all vehicle types. Other impacted areas included UN Avenue at Taft northbound, UN Station southbound, and adjacent streets leading to Quirino Avenue.

Flood monitoring was conducted through MMDA's Metrobase system, which utilizes surveillance cameras and coordination with local government units to validate reports. The ongoing rainfall and storm conditions are expected to pose further challenges in the coming days.

In light of recent events, Dr. Maria Santos, a climate scientist at the University of the Philippines, emphasized the need for improved urban planning and infrastructure resilience to cope with increasing rainfall patterns due to climate change. She stated, "As urban areas expand, the existing drainage systems struggle to cope with severe weather events, leading to frequent flooding. Comprehensive planning is essential to mitigate these risks."

The socio-economic impact of flooding extends beyond transportation, affecting businesses and daily activities in the area. According to a recent report from the Asian Development Bank (ADB), infrastructure vulnerabilities in Southeast Asian cities could cost economies billions annually if not addressed. This emphasizes the urgent need for investment in resilient infrastructure, particularly in flood-prone regions like Metro Manila.

The MMDA has urged the public to exercise caution when navigating affected areas and to stay updated via official channels regarding weather conditions and road accessibility. The local government is coordinating with disaster response teams to provide assistance to those affected by the flooding.

As the country braces for more rain in the coming weeks, authorities are focusing on immediate response measures while also considering long-term strategies to enhance flood management and urban resilience in Metro Manila. This situation underscores the critical intersection of environmental science, urban planning, and public safety, highlighting the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in addressing urban flooding challenges in the Philippines.