MMDA traffic enforcers to work overtime during the holidays

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) ordered yesterday its traffic enforcers to render extra hours to deal with the heavier flow of vehicular traffic in the metropolis’ major roads during the holidays.

Under the MMDA’s holiday traffic scheme, traffic enforcers will work in shifts until 12 a.m. or – if the need arises – until 2 a.m. everyday to direct traffic and assist motorists and commuters.

MMDA traffic enforcers usually work in shifts from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. “because people are out in the streets longer these days. There are also those coming from provinces so we expect heavier volume of both vehicular and pedestrian traffic,” MMDA Chairman Oscar Inocentes said.

Traffic Operations Center (TOC) executive director Angelito Vergel de Dios said 500 additional traffic enforcers will be deployed throughout Metro Manila on top of the 2,000-strong TOC traffic personnel.

Meanwhile, the MMDA also placed its traffic support units such as its Rescue and Road Emergency Group on a 24-hour alert to be able to respond to any road emergencies during the holiday season.

MMDA general manager Robert Nacianceno said traffic enforcers were also given orders to look out for unregistered and out-of-line public utility vehicles and illegal bus and jeepney terminals that sprout along the major thoroughfares.

Nacianceno also said MMDA traffic enforcers were also given instructions to accost drunk or sleepy drivers who could be involved in traffic accidents if they are not stopped.

“We will ask them to pull over and take a rest before allowing them to drive again. This is for their own safety,” he said.     – Mike Frialde