MMDA to hasten accident response

THE Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Monday said it is seeking to implement a faster response time for road accidents within the Philippine capital’s major thoroughfares.

“We are looking at a response time of maybe five minutes and then 10 to 15 minutes for the clearing operations, so that there are no more obstructions,” newly appointed MMDA General Manager Nicolas D. Torre III said in a livestreamed news briefing, in mixed Filipino and English.

He added that the agency aims to reduce clearing operations, which usually take 15 to 30 minutes, by training additional MMDA personnel.

“We will try to speed up because we will also add personnel. We will also train personnel,” he said.

There were an estimated 27,181 road incidents in 2024, according to data from the MMDA.

Mr. Torre was earlier appointed by President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. as the MMDA’s new general manager. He was previously the chief of the Philippine National Police, but was relieved in August last year.

He will handle the agency’s day-to-day operations, including traffic management, enforcement, and clearing operations for Metro Manila’s major roads and waterways.

“The general manager will handle all operational matters. About 70 to 80% of the job will be under him directly.” MMDA Chairman Romando S. Artes said. — Adrian H. Halili