Moratorium on roadwork in effect – MMDA

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reminded contractors yesterday that the moratorium on all road diggings and excavations across the metropolis is in effect until midnight on Jan. 3, 2016.

MMDA Traffic Engineering Center director Noemi Recio said a total of 146 ongoing road projects being handled by the Department of Public Works and Highways through various contractors have been suspended since midnight on Monday.

“If we can stop these projects, we are hopeful that traffic in the Metro Manila would not be that heavy and would somehow ease the burden of shoppers during the holiday rush,” Recio said.

Recio, however, pointed out that national government flagship projects such as the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Skyway and roadwork that do not obstruct or block vehicular traffic are not covered by the moratorium.

According to Recio, the MMDA will fine a private contractor employed by a local government unit that would start a road project during the moratorium period.