Traffic Solutions in Metro Manila, Philippines. What are they?

Leejeong

08 January 2013 08:59:34

New York

Hello expats!

Traffic in Manila is getting worse with a steady increase in car populations. Statistic shows that the car population in Manila by 2015 will be 25.72 Millions and more than half of than will be using EDSA as a main thoroughfare according to Manila Times.

Building a skyway above the existing EDSA is proposed to be the solution for this over decades of scourge in commuting and driving around the metro.

Meanwhile, MMDA also created the website to give updated information regarding traffic conditions of major roads in Metro Manila-- MMDA Online Database and their official Twitter account @MMDA

trap.ph is not an affiliate of MMDA, but it shares the common interest on giving the motorists and commuters a better idea for travelling in Metro Manila whether it's for work, school or fun time. Trapphik is a personal traffic navigator where registered members can create and manage their route to know the easiest way possible to their destination. It's also able to give the travel time that you need to reach your destination.

However, the traffic in metro manila will not work if traffic rules and regulations will be taken for granted by irresponsible bus drivers, motorists and even commuters. Website wouldn't work if online users will not use it as their guide on dealing the traffic situation on areas affected by heavy traffic.

I hope it will be worth-reading.

casey63

11 January 2013 14:17:26

New South Wales

Hello, I recently visited Philippines again, stayed in Bulacan, north of Metro Manila.

It is 5 years since previous visit. You are right...the traffic in Manila is worse....in a word...horrendous ! No one obeys the road rules, buses stop anywhere they can pick up a new passenger, holding up the following traffic...utter chaos.

I am not sure about the solution, however here are a few ideas:

1) Phase out jeepneys over say 5 years, enforcable by law.
2) Buses MUST maintain a timetable and stop only at designated bus stops.
3) Any police officer found to be accepting bribes to be gaoled for 2 years minimum.
4) Lanes on roads to be clearly marked and anyone found to be "weaving for advantage" to be heavily fined (note 3 above).
5) Light Rail to be introduced and part of the existing bus fleet to be phased out and scrapped.

This is a start, but of course, corruption at all levels in the political sphere must be tackled seriously.

And another thing, for God's sake, clean up the mess in the streets, the route from the airport to the city is appalling, filth everywhere. The Local people just don't seem to give dam about their city. Heavy fines for littering. If Singapore can do it, surely Manila can do it, just needs political will.

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