The Metro Manila Development Authority is exploring homegrown technology solutions to its pestering concerns in maintaining order and cleanliness along the capital’s major roads and waterways.
MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino recently held talks with Department of Science and Technology led by Assistant Secretary Robert Dizon and DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute Director Raymund Liboro to identify areas that the two agencies can jointly work on.
Initially, DOST will look into the possibility of developing enzyme-based process to degrade or reduce harmful chemicals in garbage. “Daily we collect thousands of tons of garbage in Metro Manila, which contain residual chemicals harmful to humans and the environment”, Tolentino said.
To accelerate the clean up of the Pasig River and its tributaries, the DOST can also introduce bioremediation through the use of chemical waste-absorbing plants and organisms.
Both sides agreed to look into the possibility of developing Filipino designed solar powered traffic signal system, speed radar guns, rescue sensors for collapsed buildings, and colored plastic-asphalt mix that can be used to mark pedestrian lanes, Liboro explained.
Meanwhile, the first Filipino designed electric-powered automated guideway transit system or AGTS is ready to roll down a 150-meter test track currently under construction at the sprawling Department of Science and Technology complex in Bicutan, Taguig City.
Two test-chassis of the AGTS will be ready next month, DOST Assistant Secretary Robert O. Dizon said. An engineer himself, Dizon closely supervises the AGTS design team composed of young DOST engineers with diverse engineering specializations.
DOST also expects the completion of a longer two-kilometer demonstration rail track at the University of the Philippines in Diliman by middle of the year.
“I believe that our AGTS design suits local conditions for mobility. We want to ease travel around highly populated urban centers particularly Metro Manila and the rapidly industrializing adjacent provinces”, DOST Secretary Mario G. Montejo said.-30- Media S & T
