San Miguel Corporation (SMC) President and CEO Ramon Ang has stepped forward to address Metro Manila’s persistent flooding problem, declaring his intent to take on the challenge without any financial burden to the government or the public.
In a press briefing on Friday alongside government officials, Ang made the bold announcement: “Ako po San Miguel, Ramon Ang, nagvo-volunteer ako ngayon. Ako na ang tutulong sa buong Metro Manila ma-solve ang baha at no cost to the people at no cost to the government.”
His offer covers a broad scope, including drainage system construction, clearing operations, housing, and educational infrastructure.
Ang’s public pledge comes after criticism surfaced pointing to SMC’s infrastructure projects—particularly MRT Line 7 and the Skyway—as possible contributors to flooding in affected areas. But Ang firmly rejected the accusations, stating, “Kasalanan ba namin ‘yun? Hindi. Wala nang turuan. Pinalitan namin lahat ng kanal. Kami ang gumawa noon.”
Last July, the Department of Transportation raised concerns about the MRT-7 and Skyway projects, both under SMC, potentially affecting local drainage systems. In response, SMC clarified that its MRT-7 facilities near Batasan Station do not obstruct natural water flow.
“All MRT-7 structures in the area, including columns and footings, were built outside existing drainage lines and do not obstruct the natural flow of water,” SMC said. It added that the structures were developed based on approved engineering plans and a thorough understanding of the drainage system.
SMC also addressed specific concerns about a manhole allegedly contributing to the problem, noting that “based on design, simulation, and on-site inspection, the manhole does not interfere with water flow inside the pipe culverts.”
