MMDA reminds Eleksyon 2025 bets: Motorcades on weekends, holidays only

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) on Friday reminded Eleksyon 2025 bets that election-related caravans and motorcades would only be allowed on weekends and holidays.

“Naglabas tayo ng kautusan na hindi tayo magbibigay ng permit sa mga kalsadang nasasakop ng MMDA during weekdays… Weekends lang po at holiday sila pwede payagan sa ating mga kalsada under our jurisdiction,” said MMDA Chairperson Romando Artes in an interview on the sidelines of the synchronized Grand Oplan Baklas.

(We will not issue permits on roads under our jurisdiction during weekdays. Rallies and motorcades will only be allowed during weekends and holidays.)

Artes made the statement on the same day that the local campaign period kicked off.

Artes also reminded Eleksyon 2025 bets that they need to secure road user permits for their caravans and motorcades.

“Titiketan natin ang mga sasakyan na lalahok sa rallies at motorcades na di allowed sa ating kalsada,” he added.

(We will issue tickets on vehicles that will join rallies and motorcades that will participate in the illegal rallies.)

Under MMDA guidelines, organizers must submit a request at least seven days before the scheduled motorcade or caravan for approval.

If approved, organizers must provide sufficient traffic marshals and necessary traffic control devices to ensure smooth traffic flow and public safety.

Motorcades and caravans are prohibited from using national highways (R1–R10 and C1–C5) but may cross them at open and accessible intersections.

The MMDA prohibits road closures, limits motorcades to a single lane, and bans parking along roadways during the event.

Traffic management

The MMDA will coordinate with local government units to implement traffic diversions and minimize disruptions. 

Organizers must enforce safety protocols, including traffic marshals, emergency vehicles on standby, and proper crowd management.

Organizers are also responsible for ensuring full compliance with all applicable laws, including Republic Act No. 4136 (Land Transportation and Traffic Code). 

Non-compliance may result in the cancellation or revocation of the event permit.

The 45-day local campaign period kicked off on Friday, with the Commission on Elections (Comelec) and MMDA conducting Oplan Baklas, or the taking down of unlawful campaign materials mounted outside the designated common poster areas or other public places. —VAL, GMA Integrated News

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