The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority said it will start penalizing today (Aug. 1) motorcycle riders using foot bridges and flyovers as shelters during heavy downpours.
The agency said it will issue citation tickets and a fine of P1,000 will be slapped against the riders for road obstruction.
MMDA acting chairman Romando Artes said motorcycle riders seeking shelter under flyovers are dangerous not only to themselves but to other motorists as well.
“Seeking cover from the rain may endanger the riders from being hit by other vehicles and also cause traffic congestion,” he said.
The MMDA made the decision following a recent meeting with representatives of motorcycle ride-hailing firms — Grab, Angkas, Joyride, Toktok, Transportify, Maxim Riders Food Delivery, and Move It — at the agency’s main office in Pasig City.
During the meeting, Artes asked the firms to support projects and measures for riders to promote road safety, and appealed to them to discipline partner-riders who violate 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,” the MMDA chief said.
In response, representatives from Grab and Joyride said they will remind their drivers to strictly follow rules and regulations, the MMDA said.
Moreover, Artes asked the motorcycle ride-hailing services to support the establishment of the Motorcycle Riding Academy by providing priority employment to participants who will finish the course.
The Motorcycle Riding Academy, set to open within the third quarter of the year, will provide riders with formal training on both theoretical and practical aspects of motorcycle riding, as well as basic emergency response training. The Academy aims to provide riders with basic training on handling motorcycles and following road and traffic rules.
Meanwhile, gasoline station operators have supported the initiative of the MMDA to put up tents on their premises to provide temporary shelters for riders when it is raining.
“Gasoline station operators have asked us to submit our proposal and guidelines on the use of the tents to address safety and operational concerns,” said Artes.