COMMUTERS should see changes in Metro Manila’s traffic situation within the next 100 days, Malacañang said on Tuesday.
“Secretary [Arthur] Tugade made a presentation and they have a menu of changes which could very positively impact the rate of flow of traffic soon, very soon,” said Presidential Spokesperson Ernesto Abella.
“Within the next 100 days, you should be feeling something, there should be results,” he added.
“There are certain proposals—being able to purchase tickets not just from on-site but from other sources. Also proposing nicer and better waiting rooms,” Abella said, referring to the metropolis’ train system.
left (top panel): Undersecretary Anneli R. Lontoc, LTFRB Chairman Martin Delgra
III and LTO Chief Edgardo B. Galvante. MANNY PALMERO
The Transportation department is also eyeing technical adjustments to increase the number of passengers and trips,” said Abella.
Tugade has also expressed his intention to reduce airport congestion and the installation of Wi-Fi routers at sea ports and the creation of a printing office for driver’s licenses and vehicle plates.
Tugade is also eyeing the procurement of cable cars and double-decker buses, the continuation of the bus rapid transit program and the modernization of the rail system, Abella said.
He will also draft a 30-year transportation road map, which he plans to present before his term ends.
Tugade had earlier said that he will be asking Congress to provide President Rodrigo Duterte with emergency powers of up to two years to make a dramatic solution to the worsening traffic in Metro Manila.
The proposed emergency powers include direct contracting over public biddings for transportation-related projects, opening private subdivision roads to traffic, and removing transport terminals and public markets located on busy highways.
Several lawmakers in the Senate and House of Representatives have expressed support for the proposal but underscored the need to study the extent of the emergency powers Duterte will be allowed to have.