Grace Poe says emergency powers needed to address traffic mess

Sen. Grace Poe says there is a need to grant extraordinary powers to President Rodrigo Duterte following a report by the Japan International Cooperation Agency saying that the Philippines loses P3.5 billion a day in 2017 due to Metro Manila traffic. This is up from the P2.4 billion in daily economic losses in 2014.

"There is a need to grant extraordinary powers, because current laws do not adequately provide for the means to expeditiously and effectively solve this traffic and congestion crisis. Some laws even create roadblocks to acting promptly," she says.

"Unfortunately, the bill should have passed already but is being hindered by extended debates. Though the President initially asked for emergency powers, he said later on that he does not need it. This sent mixed signals to members of the House and the Senate."

Poe adds that the Duterte government should develop a reliable and convenient mass transit system, build alternative roads and bridges, pursue innovative technological traffic management solutions and develop economic centers outside of Metro Manila to address the worsening traffic condition in the country.