MMDA OKs transformed metro by 2016

MANILA, Philippines - Metro Manila is up for a major transformation as proposed by mayors and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) in a meeting at Malacañang on Thursday.

The MMDA said that the agency and the 17 mayors agreed to "an extensive physical redevelopment" through an urban renewal program that will run until 2016.

A committee headed by the MMDA was initially formed during the meeting. The committee will formulate a 6-year master plan for the renewal program.

"We want to create a world-class, vibrant, safe and healthy metropolis by 2016 by implementing short- and medium-term programs. This we will do with the mayors as our active partners," MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino said.

Tolentino said that the program aims to turn Metro Manila in to “world-class economic hub” similar to metropolitan areas in its neighboring countries in Asia.

"We have to revitalize our central business districts, create better, safer roads, a land-and-rail mass transportation system, and other major face-lifting endeavors to address Metro Manila's rapid urban decay," he said.

Tolentino said that the MMDA presented during the meeting its proposed short- and medium-term urban renewal projects, which has been proposed to be funded by the Office of the President and joint funds from the 17 local governments of the capital region.

Part of the short-term projects are the installation of modern traffic signal lights, additional closed-circuit television cameras, "safer" roads, walkways and parks.

The MMDA said that the short-term projects should be finished in 2 years.

Also part of the short-term goal is the improvement of airports' facade and development of tourism corridors and sites in the metropolis.

Under the medium-term project, which should be completed in 2 to 5 years, is the improvement of the light rail systems and the Philippine National Railways lines and construction of elevated roadways along C-5 Raod.

The MMDA also proposed to install a tramway along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue for a more improved traffic situation along the main road of the metropolis. (report from abs-cbnNEWS.com)