Abalos wants higher fines for jaywalking on Edsa, C-5

An MMDA official catches a young man jaywalking at the EDSA-Ortigas intersection, as MMDA launches its all-out campaign on jaywalkers in 2012. (File photo by MARIANNE BERMUDEZ / Philippine Daily Inquirer)

MANILA, Philippines — Interior Secretary Benhur Abalos Jr. on Monday proposed the implementation of stricter penalties for jaywalking on Edsa and C-5, both major thoroughfares.

Abalos made this suggestion during a press conference with the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), urging it to collaborate with relevant local government units to explore this idea further.

He added that the MMDA should at least consider this proposal in areas where jaywalking poses significant dangers, specifically on Edsa and C-5.

“I just hope that the MMDA could conduct a study here, and I wish they would encourage it because the coverage of EDSA in that area includes Caloocan, San Juan, Quezon City, Mandaluyong, Makati, and Pasay. If your penalty is only P500, think about it. Go all the way, maximize it,” Abalos said, speaking partially in Filipino.

Abalos also suggested that the MMDA should consider community service as an alternative punishment.

Meanwhile, the MMDA acting chair, Romando Artes, expressed his support for Abalos’ recommendation.

“Personally, I am in favor of increasing penalties for violations – to individuals can learn and be more disciplined and follow traffic laws,” he said.

Artes said the MMDA would collaborate with the Department of Transportation (DOTr) to develop strategies to discourage people from jaywalking, including the installation of wire mesh at jaywalking hotspots.

ATM