MMDA’s new pair of eyes: Mobile Metrobase

In time for the Holy Week exodus, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is extending its vision to traffic hotspots not covered by its closed circuit television cameras (CCTV), with the help of its newly launched “Mobile Metrobase.”

MMDA Chair Francis Tolentino on Tuesday presented the agency’s newest pair of electronic eyes—a black Hyundai Starex van with modified interiors equipped with TV screens, a microwave antenna, and a camera capable of a 360-degree view.

“We just took advantage of the existing technology, equipment and software in modifying the vehicle to suit our needs,” Tolentino said.

The van is fitted with five TV monitors, three of which show feeds from the major networks, another linked to a laptop receiving feeds from the MMDA’s CCTV cameras around the metropolis, and another screen for a traffic navigator system.

The van may be operated by a three-man team—a driver and two technicians.

With the Metrobase now on wheels, the MMDA chair said it would be easier for the agency to deploy traffic officers or emergency rescue teams for accidents or calamities.

“We could use this during protest rallies and processions, like the Quiapo procession,” Tolentino added.

Since the images being recorded by the mobile Metrobase are in real time, the agency can issue alerts to motorists more efficiently, he added.

Relying on microwave technology, the mobile Metrobase could be sent to as far as Pampanga for monitoring.

Its mounted camera can zoom in clearly on an object one kilometer away.