MMDA stops all road diggings for holidays

MANILA, Philippines –  Expecting the volume of vehicular traffic to be heavy during the holidays, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has suspended all road diggings until Jan. 2 next year.

In a memorandum, MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino ordered the temporary suspension of all diggings along the metropolis’ roads, passageways and sidewalks as well as the installation, repair or improvement of water pipes, telephone or cable conduits, sewers and drainage systems, communication and power line improvements being undertaken by any government agency or public and private contractors.

“We deemed it necessary to impose the moratorium in response to the complaints of the public that government should ease traffic congestion caused by road diggings, especially during Christmastime,” he said.

Tolentino however clarified that the moratorium does not apply to flagship projects of the government. He advised all public and government agencies concerned to undertake appropriate measures to ensure that roadways that were dug up be properly restored and are passable, clean and serviceable to all vehicles and pedestrians.

Tolentino warned that violators of the moratorium will face fines between P3,000 and P10,000, jail time between 30 days and six months, or both.