Duterte asks for emergency powers to solve traffic woes

President Rodrigo Duterte suggested during Monday's State of the Nation Address (SONA) at the Batasan Pambansa in Quezon City that Congress grant emergency powers to agencies involved in solving the worsening traffic situation in Metro Manila.

However, Duterte added that it was the legislative branch's call whether it would grant such powers.

"Ayaw mo? Okay lang rin, pero nakita namin kung gusto n'yong madaliin—alam naman ninyo sagad na—nasa inyo na. If you will give it, fine. Tatanggapin ko 'yung pagmumura ninyo, 'wag lang sa malapit," he said.

"Ganu'n talaga, e, you've done it. It's urgent and immediate situation and solution. Gusto ninyo, okay."

Duterte also explained that the use of existing roads in Metro Manila had to be "maximized" given the lack of infrastructure.

"Thus, there is a need to cooperate and coordinate with LGUs to map out secondary routes and to consult various stakeholders, including the public transport operators," he said.

He also pointed out that the Pasig River Fery Service System was "a viable option" to help ease Metro Manila's traffic.

"This serves as an alternative mode of transportation for passengers particularly those coming from the east side of Metro Manila to reach specific destinations within the cities of Manila, Mandaluyong, Pasig, Taguig, Marikina and Quezon City," he said.

The president also promised a more active anti-colorum campaign.

"Our anti-colorum campaign and out-of-line apprehension including the removal of terminals will be intensified and, my God, it will be done. Immediately, immediately," Duterte emphasized.,

Additionally, there would be improvements to the nation's infrastructure, including road network projects.

"We will accelerate infrastructure spending by improving national roads and bridges and implementing the Mindanao Logistics Infrastructure Network and other road network master plans. We shall pursue inter-island linkage projects," he said. — NB/DVM, GMA News