Metro Briefs: Light truck ban in effect on Edsa, Shaw until June 15

Starting today, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will apprehend light trucks that violate the ban during peak hours on Edsa and Shaw Boulevard. Some 3,000 light trucks that make deliveries to malls and hotels pass through Edsa during rush hour and the ban is expected to reduce traffic volume, MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialago said on Sunday. Light trucks (with a gross capacity weight of 4,500 kilograms and below) will not be allowed on Edsa southbound from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. and Edsa northbound from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The restricted area covers Magallanes to North Avenue. The same ban (lane as well as hours) will also apply to Shaw Boulevard which spans the cities of Mandaluyong and Pasig. In a resolution approved by Metro Manila mayors, the light truck ban will be implemented from today, March 20, until June 15, from Mondays to Saturdays, except Sundays and holidays. Violators face a fine of P2,000. Trucks carrying perishable goods are exempted but the owners still need to apply for an exemption, according to the MMDA. Also exempted are government and emergency vehicles such as fire trucks and ambulances. —Erika Sauler

Manila, Rizal artists collaborate in art show

Six artists from Manila and Rizal province will be staging a group art exhibit with the theme “Iba’t Ibang Mukha ng Pintura” at the Passion Art Gallery, 4th floor, SM Megamall on March 28 to April 8. Artists from Rizal province include water color painter and Tanay Vice Mayor Jimmy Vista, romantic realism artist Irvyn Roxas, landscape artist Adler Llagas, watercolor painter Tony Daleon and Japanese koi and flower painter Angelito “Jo” Florendo. Abstract expressionist painter Kenneth Montegrande is from Ermita, Manila. The group art show will open at 6 p.m. on March 28. Contact Kenneth Montegrande at 917-3630004 and 949-9888982 or email: [email protected].