The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) have signed a partnership for a technical cooperation project to leverage advanced technology in creating a more efficient traffic management system in Metro Manila.
MMDA Chairman Atty. Don Artes and JICA Chief Representative to the Philippines Sakamoto Takema signed the records of discussion for the project at a ceremony held at the MMDA Head Office in Pasig City.
“Through the initiative, the MMDA is enhancing its traffic management capability using Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS).”
“Through the initiative, the MMDA is enhancing its traffic management capability using Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS), demonstrating its commitment to modernizing and expanding existing systems to further improve Metro Manila’s transportation experience,” Artes said.
The project is aligned with the administration’s plan to make transportation systems, with the use of new technologies, smarter and more responsive to the changing needs of the Filipinos, under the Bagong Pilipinas program.
“The ITS project envisions utilizing and enhancing the agency’s vehicle detection systems, variable message signs, speed violation enforcement systems, and traffic signal enforcement system, and devices that enable real-time monitoring of traffic conditions in the metropolis,” the MMDA chief explained.
The MMDA head also thanked JICA officials for their support, expertise, and contributions to the economic and social development of Metro Manila and the country, citing that “Japan’s Official Development Assistance (ODA) continues to be a catalyst for collaboration and growth across multiple sectors, especially in transportation, and plays a key role in helping us achieve our commitments to the United Nations Sustainable Goals.”
Meanwhile, Sakamoto said ITS have been playing a crucial role in managing congestion and improving urban mobility in Japan, and fully utilizing the advantages of the digital age can optimize passenger flow and enhance the overall efficiency of transportation networks.
“Modernized ITS is what we love to share with the Philippines through the new technical cooperation project.”
“Modernized ITS is what we love to share with the Philippines through the new technical cooperation project… JICA is pleased and enthusiastic to support MMDA to develop its capacity for traffic management by introducing Japan Quality ITS measures,” he stressed.
Among the key ITS components implemented by the MMDA are: Communications and Command Center, Implementation of Traffic Signals, Installation of high definition Closed Circuit Television Cameras, Communication Network, etc.
