Traffic in Metro Manila is one of the worst problems in the country. For example, the trip from Makati to Pasig can take over an hour, even though the two cities are close together.
To improve traffic management, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has partnered with Japan through Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS).
Recently, MMDA Chairman Atty. Don Artes and Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Chief Representative in the Philippines Sakamoto Takema in the agreement for this project at the MMDA Head Office in Pasig.
According to Artes, the purpose of ITS is to use and improve MMDA systems such as vehicle detection systems, variable message signs, speed violation enforcement systems, and traffic signal enforcement systems. With the help of these, real-time monitoring of traffic in the city will be more effective.
Meanwhile, according to Takema, ITS has played a major role in Japan in reducing traffic congestion and improving public transportation. He said, the digital age has a big role in improving traffic flow, so they want to share their technology in the Philippines.
What is ITS?
Intelligent Transportation System (ITS) is an advanced system that uses technology to improve the use of transportation. With this, motorists can more easily get information for a safer and more effective trip.
In Japan, research on ITS began in the 1960s. By 1995, their government launched 11 policies for the integration of various ITS projects into a more organized system. This includes the development of system architecture, research and development (R&D), standardization, and international cooperation.
Some of the components of ITS in Japan are navigation apps, automated toll collection systems, CCTV traffic monitoring, variable traffic signage, and speed monitoring systems.
Although the Philippines is still far from this technology, MMDA and JICA plan to develop their own ITS by building communications and command centers, upgrading traffic
