MMDA Steps Up Road Clearing Operations Across Metro Manila
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has ramped up road clearing operations across Metro Manila to recover public spaces long obstructed by illegal parking, sidewalk vendors, and other road encroachments. These efforts, known as road clearing operations across Metro Manila, aim to restore accessibility and safety for pedestrians and motorists alike.
According to sources familiar with the matter, the MMDA’s Special Operations Group-Strike Force is focusing on alternate routes in cities such as Manila, Caloocan, Mandaluyong, San Juan, and Navotas. These areas have seen sidewalks disappear and roads narrow due to illegal structures and parked vehicles, forcing pedestrians to walk dangerously close to moving traffic.
Reclaiming Public Space and Improving Traffic Flow
Officials note that the intensified clearing drive responds to the growing need to manage traffic better, especially as motorists are rerouted to secondary roads during ongoing rehabilitation along the southbound segment of EDSA, between Roosevelt Avenue and Balingasa. These secondary routes often suffer from similar obstructions, which have worsened congestion and compromised public safety.
“What we are doing is not just traffic management—it’s road reclamation,” emphasized a community leader involved in the operations. “Roads and sidewalks must be accessible to the commuting public and emergency responders, not for private or commercial misuse.”
Prolonged neglect has led to the loss of sidewalks and narrower roadways, leaving pedestrians vulnerable. The MMDA is working closely with local government units and barangay officials to maintain cleared spaces and prevent illegal structures and parked vehicles from returning.
Ensuring Compliance and Addressing Abuse of Privileges
The MMDA is also cracking down on motorists who misuse unauthorized emergency and media exemption stickers to bypass the number coding scheme. This abuse of privilege not only undermines traffic management efforts but also contributes to congestion.
Furthermore, the agency is collaborating with the Land Transportation Office and law enforcement bodies to implement a single ticketing system that will block vehicle registration renewals for those with unpaid traffic violations. This measure seeks to promote accountability and encourage motorists to comply with traffic rules.
The core mission behind these road clearing operations across Metro Manila remains to restore order, fairness, and safety on the roads. “Every cleared road is a step toward a more inclusive and commuter-friendly Metro Manila,” community leaders said.
For more news and updates on road clearing operations across Metro Manila, visit Filipinokami.com.