MMDA’s stiffer fines for EDSA bus lane violators start next week

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced that stiffer fines for EDSA bus lane violators will be imposed on November 13. The increase in fines aims to prioritize the safety of motorists and improve the travel time of the commuting public.

MMDA will soon impose stiffer fines for EDSA bus lane violators

From the outgoing Php 1,000 fine, the government agency will impose as much as Php 30,000 for violators, including revocation of driver’s license. Previously, MMDA Acting Chairman said that the new penalties are not anti-poor nor a money-making scheme. Motorists who illegally ply along the EDSA bus lane tend to be capable of paying the fine.

For your reference, here is the list of fines under the MMDA Regulation No. 23-002:

• First offense – Php 5,000
• Second offense – Php 10,000 plus one-month suspension of driver’s license, and required to undergo a road safety seminar
• Third offense – Php 20,000 plus one year suspension of driver’s license
• Fourth offense – Php 30,000 plus recommendation to Land Transportation Office for revocation of driver’s license

The new fines should result in faster turnaround time for buses that carry 50 to 60 passengers, benefiting lots of commuters.

The new fines should improve the EDSA bus lane network

Moreover, safety should be improved along the bus lanes, especially for two-wheeler vehicles. The agency wants to prevent accidents like what happened earlier this year where a hit-and-run incident killed a motorist at the Shaw Boulevard tunnel southbound.

Artes reiterated that the EDSA bus lane is exclusive for passenger buses, ambulances, firetrucks, and marked government vehicles responding to emergencies only. The agency said that the increased fines apply to both drivers of public and private vehicles who are not authorized to use the exclusive bus lanes.

The Land Transportation Office (LTO) is coordinating with the MMDA in apprehending EDSA bus lane violators.

"These EDSA bus lane violators will be reported to the Land Transportation Office and penalties will be attached to the vehicle owners," said Artes.

Don’t miss the latest road and traffic updates at Philkotse.com.