MMDA creates motorbike lanes along Commonwealth, Macapagal

MANILA, Philippines - The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has created “motorcycle lanes” along the Commonwealth and Macapagal Avenues in a bid to curb road accidents involving motorcycles.

 MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino said the fourth lane of the 12.5-kilometer-long Commonwealth Avenue and the rightmost lane of Macapagal Avenue have been designated as motorcycle lanes.

He said the MMDA is currently carrying out an information drive before conducting a dry run on Oct. 10 to 16. MMDA enforcers will only start issuing tickets when the full implementation of the policy starts on Oct. 17. The MMDA will still determine the amount of the fine that will be imposed on violators.

Tolentino said the dedicated lane does not give motorcycle riders the license to break the 60-kilometer per hour speed limit on the two highways.

MMDA Traffic Engineering Center director Noemi Recio said the MMDA will re-implement a resolution passed several years ago requiring motorcycle riders to turn on their headlights even in daytime to avoid accidents. – Mike Frialde, Aie Balagtas See