MANILA – Newly appointed Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Guillermo “Torre” Eleazar has set an aggressive target of 5 minutes for emergency response to road accidents across Metro Manila, aiming to drastically reduce fatalities and congestion. Eleazar unveiled the goal during his first press conference on January 6, 2026, emphasizing a “rapid, coordinated” approach involving MMDA traffic enforcers, local police, and rescue units.
Eleazar, a retired PNP chief known for his no-nonsense style, said: “Every minute counts in saving lives—our target is 5 minutes from call to arrival. We’ll deploy more quick-response teams, use AI traffic monitoring, and partner with LGUs for seamless operations.” The plan includes:
- Dedicated Motorcycle Units: For faster navigation in gridlock.
- Real-Time Dispatch: Via upgraded command centers.
- Training & Equipment: Enhanced for 1,000+ personnel.
This comes after Eleazar’s transfer from PNP leadership in late 2025, tasked to tackle Metro Manila’s notorious traffic (average speeds ~15-20 kph). Current response times hover at 10-15 minutes; the 5-minute benchmark aligns with global standards in dense cities like Singapore.
Critics note challenges—overcrowded roads, funding—but supporters praise the bold vision for a safer, smoother NCR.
Response Time Goal Snapshot:
| Target | Details |
|---|---|
| Response Time | 5 minutes (call to arrival) |
| Key Tools | Motorcycle units, AI monitoring, LGU partnerships |
| Scope | All road accidents in Metro Manila |
A fresh start for MMDA under Torre—here’s to quicker help on the roads!