Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 2) – Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Acting Chairman Don Artes said the agency’s plan to fine motorcycle riders for sheltering under flyovers and footbridges is not “discriminatory” as the move is for the safety of all motorists.
“Maling sabihin na ang hakbang na ito ng MMDA ay diskriminasyon sa hanay ng mga motorcycle rider. Hangad po ng aming ahensiya ang kaligtasan ng mga nagmomotorsiklo,” Artes said Saturday in a Facebook post.
[Translation: It is wrong to say that the MMDA’s move discriminates against motorcycle riders. The agency wants motorcycle riders to be safe.]
Artes made the statement after 1-Rider Party-List Rep. Rodge Gutierrez criticized MMDA’s plan as “inhumane” and “anti-poor.”
“Maganda ang intension ng MMDA na maibsan ang pagsisikip ng trapiko. Ngunit tila hindi makatao ang panuntunang nais nilang ipatupad laban sa mga nagmamaneho ng motorsiklo, at isa itong anti-poor o pagmenos sa ating mga ‘kagulong,’” Gutierrez said.
[Translation: The intention of MMDA to ease traffic congestion is good. However, it seems that the planned directive against motorcycle riders is inhumane and anti-poor.]
Artes said a traffic violation ticket will be issued to motorcycle riders found sheltering under flyovers and footbridges, but said the agency planned to designate shelters for riders in gasoline stations.
Artes said riders may instead shelter at lay-by areas since staying under the said structures may not only cause traffic but also lead to road accidents.
He added that those who will be caught violating the new policy may be fined ₱500 for obstruction.
“Soon, ‘pag naayos na natin ang ating systema, particularly ‘yung mga nasa gasoline station, we will strictly enforce na po ‘yung pag-issue ng ticket sa mga magba-violate,” Artes said.
[Translation: Soon, when we fixed our system, particularly with regard to the gasoline stations, we will strictly enforce the issuance of tickets to violators.]
