LTO: Edsa bus carousel lane violators’ driver’s licenses may be suspended

NEW YEAR, OLD AGONY Commuters availing themselves of a bus ride at Edsa Bus Carousel Station in Cubao, Quezon city, form a long line that stretches to an overpass as many of them return to work on Tuesday, after the New Year holidays. (File photo dated January 3, 2023 by NIÑO JESUS ORBETA)

MANILA, Philippines — Violators of Edsa bus carousel lane, who will “evade” traffic enforcers, may face suspension of driver’s licenses.

This is the warning of Land Transportation Office (LTO) chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II.

He gave the statement after the first day of the implementation of stiffer fines and penalties for unauthorized use of the exclusive bus lane on Monday.

Mendoza noted other traffic rules violators may also get their licenses suspended.

“Our driver’s license is a privilege given by the government,” he said.

“It comes with responsibility and obligation that includes respecting traffic laws to ensure road safety, and respecting the people who enforce them,” he noted.

The LTO chief also called “unacceptable” reports of motorists, especially motorcycle riders, intentionally speeding off their vehicles to avoid being caught by traffic enforcers.

“Hindi ito katanggap-tanggap,” he said.

(This is unacceptable.)

“Ito ay maliwanag na pambabastos sa batas at sa mga uniformed traffic enforcers na nagpapatupad ng mga batas upang maging maayos ang daloy ng trapiko at maging ligtas ang lahat ng lansangan para sa lahat,” he explained.

(It is a clear affront to the law and to the uniformed traffic enforcers who enforce the laws to keep traffic flowing smoothly and to make all streets safe for everyone.)

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) recorded 621 bus lane violators from Monday to Tuesday at 9 a.m.

This number includes two MMDA personnel who were issued violation tickets.