MMDA ‘Agaw Manibela’ campaign a success – Fernando

Despite criticisms, Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Bayani Fernando yesterday described the agency’s “Agaw Manibela” scheme a success.

Fernando said traffic build-up on EDSA has been reduced since buses were prohibited from overstaying in loading and unloading bays.

Fernando, who joined the MMDA’s weekly radio program over GMA-dzBB through a telephone call from Hawaii, said the “Agaw Manibela” program is showing positive results.

He lauded the system for instilling discipline among bus drivers who ignore existing rules and regulations implemented on major roads and streets.

Records showed that the system led to the impounding of over a dozen buses on the first day of its implementation.

Seventeen buses were brought to impounding yards by traffic enforcers granted the power to bodily remove erring drivers from their vehicles and drive the vehicles themselves.

MMDA traffic personnel, led by Traffic Enforcement Group (TEG) chief Bobby Esquivel, started the implementation of Fernando’s latest method of instilling discipline among motorists last Monday.

Under the rules, passenger buses are allowed to load and unload passengers in designated areas from 15 to 30 seconds.

Esquivel explained that the system gives all bus drivers equal opportunity to get passengers.

Fernando announced last week that he had authorized MMDA traffic enforcers to bodily remove bus drivers who refuse to follow the rules.

His latest directive drew flak not only from bus drivers, but the riding public who complained that having to get off a bus and transfer to another is very inconvenient and a waste of time.

Drivers apprehended for violating Oplan Agaw Manibela rules stand to pay at least P5,000 in fines and penalties, including towing and impounding charges. – Michael Punongbayan