September 26, 2009 was the day when Typhoon Ondoy swept through the Philippines. The floods caused by Ondoy claimed cause 300 deaths, destroyed countless properties and ruined the lives of over 2 million people. It was one of the most devastating natural disasters in Philippine history.

Manila has always been a city prone to floods especially during the rainy season. It's about time we take measures to prevent any more tragedies like what happened with Ondoy. The following are ideas that must be considered.

1) Upgrading the obsolete sewage and drainage systems around the metropolis
2) Harsh punishments for people who throw garbage into creeks, canals and drainage systems
3) The implementation of lifeboat areas around Metro-Manila
4) More protection for the few remaining nature areas in Metro-Manila
5) Implementation of strict laws on public hygiene

We urgently call for the aforementioned ideas to be worked on by the local government of Manila. Future lives are depending on it.