DO you know in what aspect the RTA is an expert? Yes, you’re right. The RTA is best at asking for understanding. “Pasensya na” or “mangayo mig pasaylo” has always been the response to the public’s clamor for better-managed vehicular and pedestrian traffic in the City.
The recent incident at Tablon, where vehicular traffic hit a snag because of the insensitivity of barangay and RTA officials, is a clear example of how the City was plunged into “perdition.” This was also due to the ineptness of the RTA management, led by its incompetent department head, and its consultants, who seem to be good only at conducting meetings.
I heard on the radio that even the barangay captain seemed oblivious to the consequences of using the entire lane for a barangay parade. The barangay may have considered only the pomp the parade would bring as it celebrated its fiesta, without regard for the resulting suffering of the users of the blocked highway.
And the RTA manager’s response when interviewed was a simple, “Pasensya na.”
Again, it has been noticeable that the entry of Kag. Eric Salcedo as overseer of the RTA has resulted in clear improvements in the manner in which traffic aides implement traffic ordinances. But how long will this last?
Unless there is a revamp of the traffic management system of the RTA, we cannot expect a lasting solution to the traffic nightmare that the City has been experiencing.
The Mayor will have to consider replacing organic personnel of the RTA who are responsible for the traffic mess in the city, particularly Engr. Oclarit.
The Mayor may also consider trimming down the number of RTA consultants because their engagement has not improved the traffic situation. Or better still, replace all those consultants with people who actually know how to manage traffic.
Peter Clarete
Concerned citizen
