Barangay execs try to stop MMDA team

PERSONNEL of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) were once again met with resistance Tuesday as they were clearing Mabuhay Lanes or alternate routes for motorists wanting to avoid Edsa during the holiday season.

MMDA Task Force Mabuhay Lanes co-head Ed Lara told the Inquirer in an interview that they were conducting clearing operations on C. Palanca Street in Quiapo, Manila when some barangay officials tried to stop them from towing the vehicles illegally parked in the area.

Lara said a woman wearing a vest with “barangay kagawad” written on the back approached his team and told them not to touch any of the motorcycles, “kuliglig” (motorized pedicabs), trucks or private cars.

“I was not able to get her name but she claimed that she had the authority to decide what to do with the vehicles in the area,” Lara added.

He said that his team figured in a debate with several other officials of the barangay before the matter was settled. He added that some men in the area even tried to draw a knife during the altercation.

The incident, however, was quickly settled after members of the Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group intervened.

“Despite the resistance, we were still able to impound 53 vehicles (38 motorcycles, 5 tricycles, 6 trucks and 4 sedans) on Routes 13 and 14 covering Carriedo area in Manila,” Lara said.

Of the 17 designated Mabuhay Lanes (also known as Christmas Lanes), Lara said 16 routes have already been cleared. Only one, Estrella in Makati City up to Mindanao Avenue, has yet to be cleared.