MMDA, Meralco remove dangling wires to restore Intramuros’ beauty

By Raymond Carl Dela Cruz, Philippine News Agency

FIXING WIRES. Linemen remove unused and dangling wires in the streets of Intramuros, Manila on Thursday (Aug. 8, 2024) as part of a partnership between the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Manila Electric Company (Meralco). MMDA Acting Chair Don Artes said removing the wires would both beautify the streets of Intramuros and make it safer for pedestrians and motorists. (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)

MANILA – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Manila Electric Company (Meralco) on Thursday conducted a cleanup of dangling wires in Intramuros, Manila to beautify and make the area safer for the public.

During the cleanup operations, MMDA Acting Chair Don Artes said removing dangling wires is a preventative measure meant to ensure that these cables and overloaded poles will not cause grave threats to pedestrians and motorists.

“The MMDA is here to assist in the project ‘Cleantramuros’ of First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos which aims to bring back the beauty and glory of Intramuros and to make it the premier attraction here in Metro Manila,” Artes said.

Aside from Meralco, he said telecommunications companies and internet service providers have been informed about the cleanup prior to the operation.

“Intramuros has entered the tentative list of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) World Heritage Sites and the clearing of dangling wires is just the start of the IA’s (Intramuros Administration) plans and actions to restore the beauty and significant history of the Walled City of Manila,” he said.

In addition, he said the IA will continue to strictly implement rules and regulations on the installation of cables and wires within their jurisdiction to maintain their orderliness.

In June, the Metro Manila Council (MMC)—composed of the 17 mayors in Metro Manila and led by the MMDA—approved a resolution to regulate and monitor the construction, installation, and maintenance of distribution lines of utilities such as electric and telecommunications service providers.

MMDA Resolution 24-16 Series of 2024 aims to ensure the integrity of facilities and address public safety by eliminating potential hazards caused by dangling wires.