Photo courtesy of MMDA/Facebook.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Thursday convened the second Joint Coordination Committee meeting to assess progress on the Capacity Enhancement on Traffic Management with Improvement of Intelligent Transportation Systems for Metropolitan Manila (MMITS).
Stakeholders from 17 local government units, national agencies, and academic institutions attended the meeting led by MMDA Chairman Atty. Don Artes. The session focused on reviewing ongoing initiatives and planning upcoming activities under the MMITS program.
Leaders of the three Technical Working Groups presented current projects and activities, highlighting steps toward a smarter and safer traffic system in Metro Manila.
Artes said milestones achieved under the project are moving the capital closer to safer streets. He noted that capacity-building for ITS development personnel from LGUs, national agencies, and academia is already underway.
A road user needs survey has also started to provide insights into travel behavior and road safety issues across the metropolis.
Preparations for pilot projects are underway under Output 2, while groundwork for a centralized data system is being laid under Output 3. The MMITS project website was also launched to share information and promote transparency.
MMDA Deputy Chairman and MMITS Project Director Usec. Frisco San Juan, Jr. said the project aims not only to improve traffic flow but also to shape the future of mobility in Metro Manila into a safer, smarter, and more user-responsive system.
The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), a project partner, pledged to strengthen MMDA’s capacity to implement ITS through expanded use of technology and data. JICA Philippine Office Senior Representative Takanori Morishima said the agency looks forward to developing pilot traffic management projects and completing the ITS development plan this year.
