MMDA: Security guards not authorized to direct traffic

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) warned security personnel in residential and commercial establishments that they could be penalized if they stop traffic flow just so their building tenants and customers could pass.

MMDA officer in charge Tim Orbos stressed on Wednesday that only those who have been deputized by the agency could direct traffic.

“Except in emergency cases, only deputized traffic personnel of the MMDA have the authority or right to manage and control the direction of traffic,” he said.

Guards caught continuing this practice might be sued for usurpation of authority, he added.

Earlier, the MMDA said it would require event organizers and business establishments to coordinate with the agency before holding crowd-drawing events to ensure they would not cause heavy traffic. /atm