Starting Monday, August 21, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will be issuing tickets to motorcycle riders using the bicycle lane on Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue, commonly known as EDSA.
Motorcycle riders using bike lanes will face a fine of P1,000 for disregarding traffic signs.
"Based on MMDA's monitoring, a significant number of motorcycle riders use the bicycle lane on EDSA. This prevents bicyclists from using the lane designated for them. The bike lane is not a fast lane for motorcycles," the MMDA statement reads.
Earlier, the MMDA also warned that motorcyclists taking shelter under underpasses and footbridges during sudden rain showers will also face a P1,000 fine.
"Seeking cover from the rain may endanger the riders from being hit by other vehicles and also cause traffic congestion," the MMDA statement adds.
According to the MMDA, there are emergency lay-bys on EDSA that motorcyclists can go to for putting on their raincoats. Contrary to the statement of the Riders Safety Advocates of the Philippines (RSAP), the MMDA claimed that they did not remove, but rather improved and enlarged the motorcycle lay-bys under some EDSA flyovers. The emergency lay-bys located at the ground level of the flyovers at Ortigas, Santolan, Kamuning, Kamias and Quezon Avenue in Quezon City are among the places motorcyclists can go to. They are also in the process of arranging a lay-by on C-5.
"Our motorcycle riders have more space to take shelter at the ground level of the flyovers at Ortigas, Santolan, Kamuning, Kamias, and Quezon Ave. These lay-bys also have free repair services for motorcycles and bicycles. Each lay-by will also have a free repair service set up for motorcycles and bicycles," the MMDA explains.
Furthermore, the MMDA has asked for assistance from major gasoline stations in Metro Manila to set up tents where motorcycle riders can take shelter while putting on their raincoats.
(Photos by MMDA and Vera Victoria)
