Japanese experts share strategy to solve Metro Manila traffic

Department of Public Works and Highways secretary Rogelio Singson. INQUIRER FILE PHOTO/LYN RILLON

MANILA, Philippines – Experts from Japan have kicked off a two-day seminar with government agencies including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to share their Intelligent Transport System (ITS) that could provide a solution to the traffic congestion in Metro Manila.

DPWH Secretary Rogelio L. Singson said in a statement Tuesday that “this seminar is a great opportunity to learn and analyze various ITS project and technologies of Japan across Asia and Brazil in South America and identify the most adaptable solution to the snarling traffic in the Philippines that has become a perennial problem.”

“The seminar is part of the Japan International Cooperation Agency’s (JICA’s) extended technical assistance for the Philippines’ Mega Manila Region Highway Network Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) Integration Project,” Singson said.

A JICA study team, the DPWH, and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) are working together to craft a master plan to solve traffic congestion and improve the traffic safety and environment in the National Capital Region.

Several systems have already been put in place in the Philippines such as the embedded detectors in pavements that will monitor actual vehicle flow and adjust the traffic lights accordingly. This SMART  (State-of-the-Art Metro Manila Adaptive Responsive Traffic) System was first used in Cebu and is being implemented also along the Manila North Road, Gutierrez said.

Singson said that they want to learn more about Japan different ITSs used in different countries. “We need to use the most appropriate technology for the Philippines because what is applicable in other countries may not be applicable for us,” he added.

The seminar, which will be held on September 25-26, was described by Singson as “a glint of hope for the commuting public.”