Rizal Avenue now a ‘no parking’ zone

MANILA, Philippines - The 6.5-kilometer stretch of Rizal Avenue is now a “no parking” zone, Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada declared yesterday.

Estrada issued the declaration following a road clearing operation yesterday morning. Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau (MTPB) personnel towed 30 tricycles, five motorcycles, 15 light vehicles and two kuligligs illegally parked along the avenue.

“This is a major highway. Why parking is allowed along this narrow road is beyond me,” Estrada said.

“Beginning today, the entire stretch of Rizal Avenue is now a no parking area: parking in any part of this road will no longer be allowed anytime,” he added.

MTPB personnel also arrested a parking fee collector for illegally charging vehicle owners who park along the avenue, particularly near San Lazaro Hospital. The collector said he was authorized by the MTPB, which belied his claim.