The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) was established in 1975 through Presidential Decree No. 824 during the administration of President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. It was originally called the Metro Manila Commission and was created to centralize governance and development efforts across the 17 cities and municipalities comprising Metro Manila. In 1990, it was reorganized and renamed the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority through Republic Act No. 7924, with an expanded mandate to address the growing urban challenges in the National Capital Region.
Scope and Responsibilities of the MMDA
The MMDA serves as the central agency responsible for planning, monitoring, and coordinating policies and projects across Metro Manila. Its primary responsibilities include:
- Traffic Management: Implementing traffic regulations, managing the Unified Vehicular Volume Reduction Program (UVVRP), and proposing work schedule adjustments to alleviate congestion.
- Flood Control: Coordinating flood control projects and waste management initiatives like the Metro Manila Flood Management Project.
- Waste Management: Promoting community-based solid waste management and conducting clearing operations in waterways and public spaces.
- Road Safety: Addressing road traffic incidents and launching campaigns like “Safer Roads Around the Globe” to improve transportation safety.
- Urban Planning: Collaborating with local governments to optimize land use and infrastructure development.
- Emergency and Disaster Response: Acting as the lead agency during emergencies, such as road closures and natural disasters.
Key Services
- Traffic Updates and Management: Real-time traffic advisories and the enforcement of number coding schemes.
- Flood Mitigation: Implementation of projects to reduce flooding and maintain waterways.
- Road Clearing Operations: Regular operations to remove obstructions on major roads and waterways.
- Community Programs: Incentive-based schemes to encourage solid waste management in barangays.
- Public Assistance: Responding to accidents and coordinating with emergency services. You can also view Philippines Emergency Hotlines for more help.
Recent Developments
Work Schedule Adjustments
The agency has proposed a new work schedule for national government agencies, from 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., to reduce traffic congestion. This adjustment aims to separate the commuting hours of government employees from those of private sector workers, easing rush hour traffic and benefiting nearly 2 million employees.
Recognition of Flood Management Efforts
The organization recently awarded top-performing barangays for their exemplary implementation of solid waste management practices under the Metro Manila Flood Management Project.
Traffic and Road Safety Initiatives
Data showed an increase in road traffic incidents in Metro Manila, highlighting the urgency of road safety campaigns. Initiatives like road safety training and safeguarding programs have been launched to address this issue.
Leadership and Governance
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority is led by a chairman appointed by the President. Currently, Romando Artes serves as the chairman. The agency also works closely with the Metro Manila Council, composed of the 17 mayors of Metro Manila, to formulate and implement policies. For more about this governance, you can visit their official MMDA Portal.
Contact Information
The headquarters is located at EDSA corner Orense Street, Guadalupe Nuevo, Makati City. For inquiries and assistance:
- Hotline: 136
- Traffic Updates: App and Social Media Channels (@MMDA on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram)
- Email: info@mmda.gov.ph
Notable Contributions
- Bayani Fernando’s Legacy: The late Bayani Fernando, a former chairman and Marikina City mayor, played a significant role in shaping policies and urban projects.
- Holiday Traffic Measures: Allowing provincial buses on EDSA during holidays to accommodate increased passenger volume.
- Solid Waste Management: Successful community-driven waste segregation and recycling programs.
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