The Aquino administration has been talking about “using social media” for the past few months. So far the best that they’ve done is create a hate-flooded Facebook page for President Aquino. However it looks like one government agency is getting the idea behind social media, specifically Twitter. The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has been tweeting relentlessly and EFFECTIVELY. Here’s why I think they’re doing a good job.
- Their tweets offer value – getting real time traffic updates via Twitter is definitely a great service, especially for people who regularly check Twitter via their mobile phones. MMDA’s Twitter account has purpose and it’s not just something that’s “pa-cute”.
- They’re managing resources – one great thing they did is to manage the expectations of the people by coming out with a schedule of the MMDA Twitter Team. They’re only online 6AM-10PM and they’re very active during rush hour periods.
- They’re interacting – people usually interact with the MMDA Twitter account by informing MMDA of traffic jams, car crashes, spills, or accidents. It’s a great feedback mechanism. Other than that I’ve seen the MMDA Twitter account exchange updates with various media twitter accounts.
If you’re an active Filipino on Twitter residing in Metro Manila, you simply have to follow MMDA on Twitter. They have almost 10,000 follows now and it’s only a matter of time before they reach the tipping point and breach 20,000.
Other than the use of Twitter, I also have to commend MMDA for removing those ANNOYING pink fences and cement blocks on EDSA. Those things caused massive traffic and accidents.
Post Script: Here’s a related article I found on Manila Bulletin’s website.
Most would think that they’re just trying to ride the tech wave. I’m actually surprised at the responsiveness of the MMDA twitter account. Kudos to the MMDA!