MMDA Plans Drastic Measures Near La Salle Green Hills
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) officials have announced plans to implement drastic measures against traffic violators near La Salle Green Hills along Ortigas Avenue. The agency emphasized that fines alone may no longer effectively deter motorists from causing disruptions in this area.
The MMDA chair highlighted the urgency of addressing the escalating traffic congestion caused by private vehicles and student service cars around the school. Officials noted that the heavy traffic often extends as far as Cainta, Rizal, severely impacting commuters.
Persistent Traffic Issues Despite Penalties
Sources revealed that the MMDA previously engaged in dialogues with La Salle Green Hills administration and other nearby schools to manage traffic flow. The agency also installed CCTV cameras to enforce the No Contact Apprehension Policy. However, these measures have not resolved the problem.
“After that, the situation worsened because we issued even more tickets. We observed that despite the penalties and the installation of CCTV cameras, those dropping off and picking up students still occupy almost all the lanes. It really causes disruption,” a local official explained.
Traffic congestion has escalated beyond mere slowdowns, causing complete blockages that prevent vehicles from passing. Some community members reported that crossing from the opposite side of EDSA can take hours during peak times.
Nearly 1,500 Tickets Issued From July to August
Between July and August this year, nearly 1,500 traffic violation tickets were issued near the school, authorities reported. The MMDA ensured that tickets were sent directly to vehicle owners to reinforce accountability.
Despite this, traffic violations continue unabated. The MMDA chair expressed uncertainty whether offenders disregard penalties because they can afford to pay or if parents remain unaware of their drivers’ actions.
Violations such as loading and unloading in prohibited zones, obstruction, and ignoring traffic signs carry a fine of P1,000 per offense, according to officials.
“We are still looking for solutions. If penalties alone are not enough—perhaps because they can afford to pay—we will consider other measures to restore order along Ortigas,” community leaders noted.
Further Dialogue with La Salle Green Hills Administration
The MMDA plans to engage again with La Salle Green Hills administration and the Parent-Teacher Association for a more comprehensive discussion on improving traffic flow near the school.
Officials stressed the importance of informing drivers and parents about practicing discipline to prevent inconvenience to the public. “Drivers and parents really need to be informed and reminded to practice discipline. We should not think only of ourselves because many others are inconvenienced by the traffic obstruction along Ortigas,” a community leader said.
They also assured that enforcement is impartial. “Again, this is not a business for us. I hope our fellow citizens understand, because some say the poor are apprehended right away while the rich are not. Our treatment here is equal for all,” the MMDA chair added.
For more news and updates on traffic violations near La Salle Green Hills, visit Filipinokami.com.
