P5,000 fine awaits motorists who violate social distancing measures – MMDA

Health experts have constantly been reminding the public about how important social distancing is when dealing with the current COVID-19 crisis. It can help flatten the curve by limiting a certain number of people in an area, thus curbing further spread of the virus.

However, despite the constant reminder from the authorities, it seems like not everyone got the memo. On April 15, 2020, the PNP Highway Patrol Group and MMDA conducted a surprise inspection in EDSA to ask motorists why they are on the road.

Most of the motorists don’t even have an urgent reason for going out. Bong Nebrija, MMDA Traffic Operation Chief, said that things won’t get back to normal if people continue to violate the enhanced community quarantine (ECQ) guidelines.

With that being said, MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialago said on April 17 that motorists will now have to face a Php 5,000 fine for violating the ECQ guidelines set by the authorities.

"Kami po ay nagiinspect katuwang ang HPG, maari pong makumpiska ang inyong lisensya. Pwede po kayong matikitan ng HPG. Ang MMDA naman po ay pwedeng maniket ng violation ng physical distancing, nagkakahalaga po yan ng P5,000,"

Pialago said.

COVID-19 cases worldwide tracker (Updated: 24/04/2020)

Celine Pialago said that in a sedan, there must only be four passengers inside. If there are five passengers, then the MMDA will issue a violation of physical distancing that has a Php 5,000 fine.

She clarified that this is based upon the Department of Transportation guidelines that were implemented during the community quarantine.

Lastly, Pialago said that the PNP Highway Patrol Group will also issue a ticket for those motorists who will violate the enhanced community quarantine. The PNP-HPG will confiscate the license of the violators and they will be fined with Php 1,000 for disobedience.

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