Newly-appointed Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Benhur Abalos bared plans for Metro Manila on his first day in office.
Abalos met with the officials and directors and discussed his policies in line with the Authority’s functions and mandates.
First on his list is addressing the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic through coordination with the Inter-Agency Task Force for the Management of Emerging Infectious Diseases, National Task Force, and Metro Manila mayors.
“Top on the list is the authority’s continuous efforts in mitigating the effects of the pandemic.”
“Top on the list is the authority’s continuous efforts in mitigating the effects of the pandemic. We will focus on coordination with the authorities and local government units especially since the vaccine is underway,” the traffic chief said.
The traffic head also vowed to focus on Metro Manila’s traffic and solid waste management by working hand in hand with concerned national agencies.
“I will meet with Transportation Secretary Arthur Tugade and the Highway Patrol Group to discuss the bus lanes along EDSA,” he added.
Abalos said the full opening of the SLEX-NLEX connector is expected to alleviate traffic by 30 percent on EDSA.
He also vowed to address the issue on U-turn slots with elevated bus ramps and hinted on putting motorcycle lanes on the right-most lane and also envisions pedestrian-friendly thoroughfares.
Abalos likewise assured that due process will be implemented and no unnecessary force will be used during clearing operations.
He also pushed for transparency and output-based performance during his term. Abalos also underscored the importance of discipline and attitude in making sure that policies will be effectively enforced.
“Communication is the key.”
“Communication is the key here. I will do my best to fulfill my job as the new MMDA chairman, carrying the slogan ‘Gawa Hindi Salita’ which we implemented in Mandaluyong,” Abalos stressed.