Starting Aug. 31, MMDA to slap fines on illegally-parked cars along Mabuhay Lanes

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) warned that starting Friday, August 31, fines will be imposed on illegally-parked vehicles along Mabuhay Lanes.

MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia on Thursday said the crackdown would be conducted from 6:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. along the 17 listed Mabuhay Lanes or express routes connected to Edsa and roads going to commercial districts and shopping hubs in Metro Manila.

READ: MMDA creates 17 Mabuhay lanes; routes specified

“Motorists who do not have parking space have long been using major thoroughfares and the Mabuhay lanes as their own parking area. This practice has to stop,” Garcia said.

Violators may be charged with a fine of P200 for violating the illegal parking rule; P150 for disregarding traffic signs, and P150 for obstruction, MMDA said.

Higher fines

Last week, the Metro Manila Council agreed to increase the fine for illegal parking in the metropolis.

For attended illegally-parked vehicles, the fine will be raised from P200 to P1000. On the other hand, for unattended illegal parked vehicles, the fine will be increased from P300 to 2,000.

However, the imposition of the higher fines will not be enforced yet as the agency officials have yet to meet with MMC’s Special Traffic Committee.

Towing services

Meanwhile, the MMDA also said it will no longer utilize towing services along Mabuhay Lanes but will use them on inner roads upon the request of local government units in Metro Manila.

“There are many complaints about abusive towing firms. We do not want the efforts of our traffic personnel to go to waste because of them,” Garcia said.   /vvp