MMDA, DILG want to harmonize traffic management with LGUs

For the past several months, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Department of Interior & Local Government (DILG) butted heads with the different LGUs that make up Metro Manila.

Whereas the MMDA and DILG have their own set of traffic rules, cities like Manila and Valenzuela have their own traffic ordinances in their respective jurisdictions. As a result, motorists get confused as to which traffic regulations they have to follow – the local ordinances or the ones put by the DILG and MMDA.

However, it looks like the MMDA, the DILG, and several LGUs are now working to harmonize traffic management. This comes after the two agencies, along with the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) met with the local traffic bureaus of Metro Manila.

During the first meeting, Manila City Mayor Honey Lacuna and Valenzuela City Mayor Wes Gatchalian met with the government agencies in order to find ways to sync traffic regulations and ordinances in Metro Manila. One of their plans includes putting up a Technical Working Group (TWG) that will consist of representatives from the agencies and LGUs who will discuss the issues surrounding traffic management.

While no specifics were mentioned, the two parties likely discussed the rule regarding the confiscation of licenses from erring motorists. Remember, the DILG reminded LGUs that only deputized LTO agents can actually confiscate driver's licenses. However, the City of Manila said they will continue to confiscate driver's licenses of motorists that commit traffic violations since they have their own local traffic ordinance. Quezon City, on the other hand, aligned with the DILG's memorandum circular – stating that they will no longer confiscate the licenses of traffic violators.

Another issue they likely discussed is the matter of no-contact apprehension (NCAP). Both the cities of Manila and Valenzuela each have their own NCAP system in place in order to catch traffic violators without the need for traffic enforcers. However, this earned the ire of motorists who complained about the inconsistencies of the NCAP system, as well as the expensive fines attached to it. The Supreme Court has since put a temporary restraining order (TRO) against NCAP – putting a stop to the system for the time being.

Acting MMDA Chairman Carlo Dimayuga III is confident that their suggestions and concerns will be addressed during the meeting with the LGUs. Hopefully, this will result in a more reconciled set of traffic rules between the DILG, MMDA, and the involved LGUs.