Leyte 4th District Representative Richard Gomez is facing backlash on social media for a statement he posted and subsequently removed from his account.
In a Facebook post, Gomez suggested that the EDSA Busway should be opened to motorists during heavy traffic.
ANONG KOMENTO MO? 🗒️
— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) August 29, 2024
LOOK: Sa ngayo'y burado nang post, binatikos ng ilang netizens si Leyte 4th District Rep. Richard Gomez matapos imungkahing buksan na lamang sa mga motorista ang bus lane tuwing mabigat ang trapiko. | DZRH News
📷: Richard "GOMA" Gomez/ FB pic.twitter.com/TfrxSXscA3
The post received mixed reactions from netizens, with more negative comments, as many cited that the politician is out of touch with the realities faced by commuters.
The congressman has since deleted his post after facing significant criticisms overnight due to his suggestion.
Among the commuters who frequently use the EDSA Busway, many opposed the idea due to the potential difficulties it could cause for their travel.
"Hindi pwede dahil mas lalong traffic 'yan. Kawawa kaming komyuter," a commuter from EDSA-Ortigas said in an exclusive interview with DZRH reporter Edniel Parrosa.
The EDSA Busway is designated exclusively for public utility buses, emergency services such as ambulances and fire trucks, and government vehicles with emergency duties.
The Department of Transportation announced in November 2023 that key officials, such as the President, Vice President, Senate President, Speaker of the House, and Chief Justice, can access the EDSA Busway to assist with their duties.
Vehicles violating the bus lane restrictions have been apprehended by authorities. Penalties for unauthorized use of the EDSA bus lane are as follows:
- First offense: ₱5,000 fine
- Second offense: ₱10,000 fine, one-month license suspension, and a road safety seminar
- Third offense: ₱20,000 fine and one-year license suspension
- Fourth offense: ₱30,000 fine and license cancellation
