MMDA keeps hands off in Manila-buses row

MANILA, Philippines - Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) chairman Francis Tolentino says the banning of city and provincial buses without terminals in Manila is an issue that should be resolved by the Manila city government and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB).

“It is a city ordinance. It is an issue between the Manila City Hall and the LTFRB,” said Tolentino.

Earlier, LTFRB Executive Director Roberto Cabrera said the local ordinance, which prevents the entry of buses with no existing terminals within Manila, cannot override franchises.

Cabrera added that the ordinance is illegal as it practically enforces a total ban of buses in the city. He also noted that the LTFRB was not consulted regarding the matter.

According to Cabrera, the LTFRB’s legal team is now studying the matter.

The ordinance, which took effect last July 23, is being met with opposition by drivers, bus operators and bus commuters.

The ordinance was unanimously passed by the city council last July 16, as the city government blames buses for causing traffic congestion in the city.

Under the ordinance, city and provincial buses without existing terminals are barred from entering Manila.

Provincial buses with private terminals within the city are still allowed to enter Manila but they cannot unload passengers along the road.

Manila Vice Mayor and city traffic czar Isko Moreno said violators of the ban will be apprehended and fined by as much as P500.

Meanwhile, the MMDA which is supporting the bus ban in Manila, will be deploying additional traffic constables at the Welcome Rotonda in Manila to help direct the flow of buses which are not allowed to enter Manila from Quezon City.

In addition, Tolentino said the MMDA would be opening another access and exit point in the area for buses to use to relieve congestion.