Due to a history of drainage system issues, Baguio City personnel and police officials unclogged water canals to avoid flooding in the city in preparation for Typhoon Betty, May 27. 

 

As Typhoon Betty entered the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR) on May 27, precautionary measures to prevent possible adverse effects of the typhoon were conducted throughout the city as part of a Simultaneous Clean-Up Drive Activity. 

 

The Simultaneous Clean-Up Drive Activity is said to be Baguio City Police Office’s long-term plan carried out every Tuesdays and Thursdays to protect the city from flooding caused by severe amounts of rainfall.

 

It was reported that as a result of the intensive dredging, declogging, and clean-up drives in different creeks and waterways, bags of mixed waste such as plastics, styrofoam, diapers, etc. were gathered.

 

Meanwhile, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong also encourages the city’s community to take part in the clean-up drive by starting at their homes and communities.

 

The city has struggled with flooding brought about by problems with its drainage system. Last 2021, during the height of Severe Tropical Storm "Maring," the city experienced gutter-deep flooding in some areas, including major streets, caused by clogged water inlets. 

 

According to the latest update released by the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), as of 5 a.m. on May 29, Typhoon Betty slightly accelerates northwestward over the waters east of Cagayan.

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— Geronne Abad