DOTC chief gives 'deepest apologies' for saying Metro Manila traffic 'not fatal'

MANILA, Philippines - Transportation and Communications Secretary Joseph Abaya apologized on Thursday for his statement downplaying the traffic mess in Metro Manila.

"I extend my deepest apologies to the public, for an off-the-cuff statement made earlier in the week, which understandably came across as reckless and insensitive," Abaya said in a statement sent to Palace reporters.

"I am aware that what I said has only added to the frustration and the suffering of the public. I am profoundly sorry for this," he added.

Abaya was referring to his controversial comments about the traffic in the metro that he made in an interview last Monday with ABS-CBN's TV Patrol.

"Hindi naman siguro fatal iyan," he said, but quickly clarified that what he meant was traffic was "not burdensome to the daily lives of the people."

Abaya claimed that his office knows the traffic mess in Metro Manila and that they are addressing the problem.

"With this apology, I wish to assure the public that we are well aware of the situation we all face every day. Please be assured that we are doing everything in our power and exerting the maximum effort to ease traffic in Metro Manila and the surrounding areas," he said.

However, Abaya added that some of the solutions to the traffic woes "will take time."

He cited the LRT-2 Masinag extension project which will require two years of construction.

"This is precisely the infrastructure needed to ease traffic congestion in the area. Our goal in extending the rail system to Masinag is to provide a more efficient and reliable commuting option to those affected," he said.

Abaya "humbly" asked the public for patience and understanding amid the ongoing projects.