ExplainedPH: Metro Manila to adopt 'sponge city' approach amid worsening flood concerns
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is considering implementing the “Sponge City” concept to bolster urban flood resilience. Inspired by nature-based solutions popularized by Chinese architect Kongjian Yu, this design emphasizes absorbing, storing, and reusing rainwater through green infrastructure—such as permeable pavements, green roofs, wetlands, and parks. The initiative aims to transform Metro Manila into a city that handles rainfall like a sponge, thus mitigating recurring flood challenges. In recent discussions with the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB), the MMDA explored both technical designs and funding options for this strategy.
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