MMDA chief, 14 mayors off to Tokyo

MANILA, Philippines - Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Francis Tolentino will be leading a group of at least 14 city mayors for an observation tour in Tokyo from March 15 to 19.

Tolentino said several issues such as traffic management, urban planning and the Tokyo disaster management system would be tackled during the visit.

He said the Japan International Cooperation Agency would present its proposal for the Metro Manila subway system.

The Metro Manila mayors will also attend the 3rd United Nations World Conference on disaster risk reduction and climate change mitigation initiatives in Sendai.

 The mayors and Tokyo local executives will discuss Tokyo’s education practices, its fire department system, a possible donation of Tokyo fire trucks, and employment opportunities for Filipino nurses.

“All mayors will pay for their own travel expenses. They will meet the governor of Tokyo and will discuss possible cultural and city-to-city initiatives between Tokyo and Metro Manila cities,” Tolentino said.