Make this your preferred source to get more updates from this publisher on Google.
The number of vehicles along EDSA has declined by around 8% amid the rising fuel prices, according to the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Tuesday.
MMDA general manager Nicolas Torre III said the agency observed the decrease after conducting a behavioral traffic count from Monday to Wednesday.
“Nagsimula kami ng behavioral count Monday to Wednesday, nakita na namin ang 5 to 7, 8% na reduction sa mga sasakyan na dumadaan sa EDSA,” Torre told Super Radyo dzBB in an interview.
(We started the behavioral count Monday to Wednesday, we have already seen a 5 to 7, 8% reduction in vehicles passing through EDSA.)
Torre attributed the drop to ongoing issues affecting fuel supply and prices, which may be prompting fewer motorists to use their vehicles.
“Tinutuloy natin ang study. Inaalam natin kung ano ang further na epekto nito habang hindi pa nare-resolve ang lahat ng mga issues dyan sa Middle East at saka yung supply chain ng ating gasolina,” he said.
(We are continuing the study. We are finding out what the further impact will be while all the issues in the Middle East and also the supply chain of our gasoline have not been resolved.)
Torre also said that additional measures are being considered to manage traffic and support commuters, including possible adjustments to existing transport policies and further strengthening of mass transit systems.
Transport strike
Regarding the scheduled transport strike against the rising fuel prices, Torre said MMDA is coordinating with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) for security.
MMDA personnel and resources are on standby and waiting for guidance from the security forces before deployment, according to Torre.
Free ride buses from the MMDA are ready but will only be deployed if there are stranded passengers to avoid affecting drivers who choose not to join the strike, he said.
Deployment of assistance will be strategic and based on real-time monitoring through MMDA’s CCTV system, especially in major roads and transport hubs, according to Torre. —Joviland Rita/ VAL, GMA Integrated News
