LGUs to deputize MMDA as enforcer of anti-jaywalking ordinances

MANILA, Philippines — Local government units (LGUs) in Metro Manila have agreed to deputize the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) as enforcer of their respective anti-jaywalking ordinances, the agency announced Wednesday.

The MMDA said the Metro Manila Council, which is composed of the 17 Metro Manila mayors, has agreed during a meeting on Tuesday to deputize MMDA personnel as implementors of the LGUs’ traffic management code or anti-jaywalking ordinances.

“The deputization means MMDA anti-jaywalking teams can apprehend jaywalking violators not just on major roads in the metropolis but also on roads listed as Mabuhay lanes,” MMDA said in a statement.

MMDA chairman Danilo Lim and various LGU officials have agreed that the agency’s personnel would have to first take seminars to familiarize themselves on the anti-jaywalking ordinances of each LGU.

The Metro Manila mayors have yet to sign the approved resolution that deputizes the MMDA, the agency said.

Currently, the MMDA has its own anti-jaywalking policy where violators are issued citation tickets with a corresponding P500 fine. Jaywalkers have an option to either pay the fine or render community service, the MMDA said.

Earlier, the MMDA said it will file charges against jaywalkers who fail to pay fines or render community service.

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) will likewise be alerted of apprehended jaywalkers so that they would have “hits” on their records. /muf

READ: MMDA eyes charges vs stubborn jaywalkers