The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Tuesday started apprehending motorcycle riders who are caught taking shelter under bridges and footbridges amidst the pouring rain.
In a statement, MMDA said closed-circuit television (CCTV) footage has shown that nine riders have occupied three lanes of EDSA in Quezon City.
The said motor riders received a violation ticket and were asked to pay a fine of P1,000.
"Ayon kay MMDA Traffic Discipline Office Director for Enforcement Atty. Victor Nuñez, mapanganib na nakaharang sila sa daraanan ng ibang motorista dahil maaaring hindi sila makita at magdulot ng aksidente," the agency said.
It added that the apprehension aims to ensure the safety of all motorists and thwart any road accidents.
"Pinaalalahanan din ang mga riders na magdala ng mga kapote bago umalis ng bahay at huwag maging kamote sa daan," the agency stated further.
Meanwhile, in a video statement, MMDA chairman Don Artes clarified that the prohibition of motor riders under bridges and footbridges, as well as under the MRT-3 stations is not a new policy.
"Matagal nang may batas laban sa obstruction o mga nakahambalang sa mga lansangan. Pwede ito ipatpad kahit anong oras o araw," he added.
Artes also clarified that taking shelter on the side of the bridges and footbridges just to wear raincoats are still allowed.
"Ang pinagbabawal natin ay yung gumitna sa lansangan at maghintay tumila ang ulan. Kahit yung pagsusuot ng rain gear o kapote, dapat nasa gilid at mabilis lang. Kung talagang sa tingin nila ay zero visibility at malakas ang ulan, itabi nila ang motorsiklo, tumabi sila. Sila mismo ang tumabi sa bangketa para nasa safe sila na lugar," he said.
"Again, ang pinagbabawal lang natin ay yung pag-gitna dahil mas delikado iyon at mag ca-cause ng pagbabagal ng traffic kapag sila ay gumigitna," the MMDA chairman added.
