MMDA reactivates 5-minute response hotline

MANILA, Philippines —  The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has urged motorists involved in minor road crashes and other traffic-related incidents to use MMDA’s hotline (02) 136 for immediate assistance.

At a press briefing at Malacañang on Wednesday, MMDA general manager Nicolas Torre III announced the reactivation of Metrobase 136.

“Within five minutes, a human operator will answer your call,” Torre said.

He assured motorists that MMDA constables would be able to respond within five minutes.

The reformatted response system ensures faster coordination between the MMDA command center and field responders, according to Torre.

He said Metrobase personnel would review closed-circuit television footage (CCTV) of the accident upon receipt of the report while a traffic enforcer is on the way.

Once an enforcer arrives at the scene, a digital copy of the CCTV footage will be sent to the concerned parties’ social media accounts.

With this improved measure, the MMDA eyes to cut prolonged arguments, which result in traffic congestion and road rages.

Although the 136 hotline has been in place for years, Torre said its reactivation highlights public awareness about the response facility.

Enforcement of the five-minute response policy applies to public roads and highways covered by the MMDA, including radial and circumferential roads. – Andrew Ronquillo