Can we ever solve the traffic situation in Metro Manila that’s been described as “Carmageddon,” “abominable” and “horrible,” among other unflattering terms?\
One culprit identified by both the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and the Department of the Interior and Local Government is illegal parking. This, they are one in saying, is a big reason why streets become congested with vehicles unable to move faster or remain forever at a standstill.
Both agencies have jointly proposed a series of measures to reduce traffic ingestion and improve traffic flow in Metro Manila, with a major focus on regulating street parking.
The DILG proposal is to ban parking on public roads from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.
The MMDA proposal, on the other hand, is to restrict parking during rush hours.
In the morning, from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and in the evening, from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. This aligns with MMDA’s expanded number coding scheme.
The two agencies are said to be in talks to come up with a plan that will make Metro Manila more livable with reduced traffic congestion. Their target date to release a unified policy is Sept. 1, 2025.
What is likely to be the end-product of their meetings is a unified time-based parking restrictions based on road classification and local flexibility.
Major roads and Mabuhay Lanes could be designated as permanent no-parking zones while secondary and tertiary roads may allow one-side parking or nighttime parking, depending on traffic flow.
Each local government unit will submit its own list of roads for exemptions.
The Technical Working Group (TWG) composed of MMDA, DILG, and Metro Manila mayors will be tasked with mapping out no-parking zones; drawing up a list of permitted parking areas; and drafting implementation guidelines.
Meanwhile, the Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection supports the proposed ban as a step toward safer and more efficient roads.
They also recommend a proof-of-parking law that would require vehicle owners to show they have a parking space before buying or registering a car. They likewise advocate for public transport reforms to reduce reliance on private vehicles.
The contemplated no-parking on public roads policy, in whatever form it is likely to take, should be part of a long-term solution to traffic congestion particularly in Metro Manila and other highly urbanized cities that should include an expanded rail transport system.
