The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is set to establish a multi-agency command center (MACC) that will closely monitor the status of key transport hubs and major roads during Semana Santa or Holy Week.
In a statement, MMDA said MACC will consist of representatives from its agency, Department of Transportation (DOTr), Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB), Inter-Agency Council for Traffic, Land Transportation Office (LTO), Philippine National Police (PNP), and local government units (LGUs).
Members of the MAAC will monitor the road circumstances through closed-circuit television cameras (CCTVs) from April 3, Holy Monday, until April 6, Maundy Thursday, the period when passengers flock in bus terminals.
According to MMDA Acting Chairman Don Artes, the agency created MACC to "ensure safer travel of the commuting public and orderly traffic flow in our roads as we observe the Holy Week."
MMDA noted that several days before Holy Week, its personnel will conduct an inter-agency terminal inspection.
"Moreover, ambulances and tow trucks will be prepositioned along key areas in the metropolis. The MMDA and the LGUs are also preparing for any eventualities in case there will be stranded passengers," it added.
Apart from this, the agency has suspended number coding scheme in the National Capital Region (NCR) beginning April 6 until April 10.
