(UPDATE) MOTORISTS traversing Metro Manila during heavy rains can now call Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) hotline 136 for real-time road and flood updates this rainy season, according to MMDA General Manager Nicholas Torre III.
The hotline is part of the agency’s effort to improve emergency response and public access to flood information following the widespread flooding experienced across Metro Manila last year.
During a press conference at The Manila Hotel on Friday, Torre told The Manila Times that motorists no longer have to rely solely on Facebook posts to check road conditions or flooded areas during the rainy season.
Past MMDA flood advisories usually indicate whether roads are passable to all types of vehicles during flooding incidents.
“As part of strengthening Metrobase 136, we improved our social media positioning. That is real time, and if you have questions and want real-time answers, call 136, and we will answer you,” Torre said.
Pressed if motorists could directly ask whether specific roads are flooded or passable, Torre answered, “Yes. If they want to call about it, we will answer you.”
“To use the service, motorists need to dial 136 from a mobile phone or landline and ask Metrobase operators about real-time road conditions or potential alternate routes across Metro Manila,” he added.
The MMDA said the hotline operates 24/7 and is free to call, allowing motorists to seek assistance during emergencies or sudden flooding situations without worrying about load balance.
MMDA’s Metrobase command center monitors major roads through the no contact apprehension policy CCTV cameras and coordinates with field personnel for on-ground validation and response.
Torre said the first major rains in May exposed remaining weaknesses in Metro Manila’s flood control system despite the cleanup and inspections before the rainy season, which is why the MMDA is encouraging motorists traversing the capital during heavy rains to maximize hotline 136 and its real-time flood advisories.
Torre also urged motorists to monitor the agency’s official Facebook page, where flood advisories and road updates are posted in real time.
