Metro Manila Development Authority

MMDA was the first office we have visited when we arrived in Manila. When we entered their good office we were catered by their employees and assist into their “Flood Control Information Building”. The speakers; Engr. Beja and Engr.Bambaboco were in-charge to discuss to us the whereabouts of their office. The first speaker, Engr.Beja discussed to us the role and obligation of their office especially in acquiring safety and welfare for the people around Metro Manila and while Engr. Bambaboco on the other hand discussed to us the operation in their department which is to monitor the flood as well as in weather forecast. All of these operations in this department are required to report to the Office of the President of Philippines – Pres. Aquino.

Above photos were taken inside the Monitoring Room of Flood Control Information.  As you can see, their walls are full of LCD Monitors and each monitor is surveying different channel. Aside from monitoring, this office is also serves as the control panel for the river gates around the Metro Manila. As we all know, Manila is known to be prone of flood because they are surrounded by water such as rivers and bays. Thus, they implanted gates at 8 different places such as; Malacanang, Marikina, Pasig River and Manila bay. These gates are being opened simultaneously in order to release amount of water that can help to lower down the level of water in times of flood in affected area only.   One thing Engr. Bambaboco also pointed out is that they make sure that the Malacanang is always safe above other affected places. I then realized the political influence in all departments in the Philippines is really evident.  After their discussions they allow us to watch some of their road accidents footage that was captured by their CCTV cameras around Metro Manila.  

After which, we proceed at their so called “Metrobase Building”. Inside the Metrobase were more LCD Monitors, I think around 50 and telephones. People inside the Metrobase are busy either answering the telephone calls or watching the Monitors if there are accidents or crime happening. In Metro Manila, all hiways, roads and bridges were surrounded by CCTV cameras. Their CCTV cameras are extraordinary functions that has 360° camera view and can zoom in and out 8 times. This is one of the technologies used in Metro Manila to minimize the accidents’ rates and the rampant crimes. Moreover, is to maintain peace and order around Metro Manila.  Below are the photos illustrating the scenario inside the Metrobase.

Imagine how crucial is the task of the person in-charge in watching these monitors. It’s hard to focus on one monitor with this kind of set-up because you get disturb with other monitors and with the telephone calls. People around Metro Manila are used to dial the famous MMDA hotline 136 to ask help and report something. The Metrobase also are the one who call the Police, Ambulance, Fire Truck and etc for quick response to any accidents occur.  That’s how important the role of the MMDA in Manila.