MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Public Works and Highways blamed overpopulation and the public's wanton throwing of garbage for the massive floods in Metro Manila triggered by Typhoon Carina and the southwest monsoon.

"We can implement engineering intervention but if people continue with their improper disposal of garbage, then that would clog the waterways," DPWH Secretary Manual Bonoan said Sunday in a radio interview.

DPWH Undersecretary Cathy Cabral said that Metro Manila has exceeded its carrying capacity.

She said that the department implemented over 600 flood control projects in Metro Manila, but waterways are clogged because of overpopulation.

As of 2023, the population in the National Capital Region was 14.9 million.

Senate President Francis Escudero earlier questioned how the DPWH used its funds for flood control projects.

Bonoan said the DPWH is ready to explain to lawmakers why Metro Manila was flooded.