MMDA to apprehend riders taking shelter under flyovers, underpasses next month

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) shared that its enforcers will apprehend riders who are taking shelter under flyovers and underpasses starting next month.

During a meeting with motorcycle ride-hailing firms, MMDA Acting Chairman Romando Artes said that the agency will slap an obstruction charge to those who will do so beginning August 1. The penalty for the violation is P1,000

According to Artes, riders seeking shelter under flyovers pose danger not only to themselves but to other road users as well. "Seeking cover from the rain may endanger the riders from being hit by other vehicles and also cause traffic congestion," he explained.

Meanwhile, Artes also asked for the support of motorcycle ride-hailing firms and gasoline station operators to support measures that will aid for motorcycle riders during heavy downpours.

Artes, as well as MMDA General Manager Undersecretary Procopio Lipana and Traffic Discipline Office Director for Enforcement Victor Nuñez urged representatives of motorcycle ride-hailing companies to discipline partner riders who will be found violating traffic rules and regulations on the road —particularly those blocking traffic during heavy rains. 

"We urge motorcycle ride hailing firms to impose administrative sanctions on their partner motorcycle riders who violate traffic rules," Artes said during the meeting attended by representatives of Grab, Angkas, Joyride, Toktok, Transportify, Maxim Riders Food Delivery, and Move It.

In response, representatives from Grab and Joyride vowed to remind their rider-partners to strictly follow rules and regulations.

Further, Artes shared that gasoline station operators have thrown their support behind the MMDA initiative of putting up tents to provide temporary shelters for riders when it is raining.

However, the agency has to address the considerations and restrictions raised during their meeting. “Gasoline station operators have asked us to submit our proposal and guidelines on the use of the tents to address safety and operational concerns,” Artes mentioned.

Relatedly, Artes asked the attendees to support the establishment of the Motorcycle Riding Academy by providing priority employment to participants who will finish the course.

Set to open within the third quarter of 2023, the Academy will provide formal training on both theoretical and practical aspects of motorcycle riding, as well as basic emergency response training. It is also eyed to give riders basic training on handling motorcycles and following road and traffic rules.

Photos from Metropolitan Manila Development Authority

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