MMDA: Fewer EDSA Busway violators amid stiffer fines

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reported a drop in the number of private motorists passing through the EDSA Busway amid the implementation of stiffer fines for violators.

According to James Agustin's Unang Balita report on Tuesday there were no violators in the first few minutes of the operations of the MMDA's New Task Force Special Operations and Anti-Colorum Unit. However, some motorcycle riders later on attempted to use the exclusive city bus lane but were apprehended.

Aside from motorcycle riders, a police officer, taxis and vans were also caught at the Cubao area of the EDSA Busway.

The stiffer fines for EDSA Busway violators began on Monday.

First-time offenders are now fined P5,000, while the second offense would entail a P10,000 fine, a one-month suspension of the driver’s license, and a mandatory road safety seminar.

The third offense would have a P20,000 fine on top of a one-year suspension of the driver’s license, while the fourth offense would have a P30,000 fine and a recommendation to the Land Transportation Office for the driver’s license to be revoked.

On Monday, 409 motorists were caught using the EDSA Busway.

“Ito sana ‘yung gusto naming makita araw-araw, na wala nang lumalabag. Sana kahit walang enforcer, huwag po tayong magbakasakali na pumasok sa busway,” said MMDA New Task Force Special Operations Unit Chief Bong Nebrija.

(This is what we hope to see every day, that there are no more violators. We expect that even without an enforcer, motorists should not attempt to enter the busway.) —Jamil Santos/ VAL, GMA Integrated News