MMDA asks DPWH to restore street lights 

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Benhur Abalos asked the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to improve lighting fixtures on major thoroughfares across the metropolis, according to a report by Philippine News Agency.

Abalos said street lights are important to lessen, if not avoid, fatal road accidents.

“Public safety is our utmost priority. Only one busted or broken light would endanger lives,” he said during his meeting with the officials of DPWH and Department of Transportation (DOTr) on Wednesday.

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“Without the street lights, our motorists and commuters are in danger. Part of road safety is making the road visible to all its users,” he added.

The DPWH, through Undersecretary Robert Bernardo, agreed to fix all street lights along major thoroughfares and to turn them over to the MMDA within 10 days.

Bernardo said the DPWH would pay for the electric bill of all the road lights until the time it is turned over to the MMDA.

He, however, was concerned about thieves stealing lights and other electrical fixtures on selected major thoroughfares, especially in tunnels and underpasses.

“We will continue cooperation with the MMDA and the LGUs to make sure that all the street lights are working,” he said.

Bernardo also warned those who are stealing electric materials that they will face charges as street lights are government properties.

Abalos appealed for inter-agency collaboration to make sure that major thoroughfares are maintained to be well-lit.

The DOTr, through road sector senior consultant Bert Suansing, expressed support for Abalos and his initiatives to alleviate traffic in Metro Manila such as construction of elevated bus ramps.