MMDA intensifies crackdown vs. jaywalking

MANILA—The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reminds motorists especially drivers of public utility vehicles (PUVs) to drop off and pick up passengers on designated loading and unloading bays as it intensifies its crackdown on jaywalkers in Metro Manila.

MMDA General Manager Thomas Orbos warned passengers who alight or ride in the middle of the road or non-designated stops will be slapped with anti-jaywalking violations.

“This bad habit can cause danger not only to themselves but also to others. Passengers should learn to obey traffic rules and orderly line up to get on and get off PUVs at designated loading and unloading bays,” Orbos said.

Data from the MMDA Anti-Jaywalking Unit show that a total of 2,211 violators have been apprehended from Jan. 1, 2017 up to Feb. 14, 2017. Of the figure, around 388 have settled their infractions with the MMDA, paying PHP500 fine each while a total of 1, 823 have unsettled penalties.

Violators have the option to pay the PHP 500 fine or render a three-hour community service which is scheduled every last Friday of the month.

MMDA will deploy a bus that will serve as a “mobile classroom” where violators will be given lectures by agency officers on road safety and traffic signs.

“Again, we want to remind the public that not following even the most basic and simplest traffic rules and regulations could trigger bottlenecks. If we truly want to improve the traffic situation in Metro Manila, we should comply with these regulations to keep the traffic moving. Discipline is the key,” Orbos stressed.