MMDA nabs 1,403 motorcycle riders on Valentine’s Day for failing to use designated EDSA lanes

Philstar.com reports that on Tuesday, February 14, the traffic enforcers of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) flagged down 1,403 motorcyclists "for not using the designated motorcycle lanes along EDSA." Valentine’s Day was the first day of the weeklong dry run of EDSA’s segregated motorcycle lanes. The lanes are marked with blue paint.

The report noted: "According to the MMDA, of those apprehended and given the 15-minute roadside safety lectures, 160 were stopped at Roxas Boulevard, 693 at San Simon, 52 at Timog Avenue, 297 at White Plains, and 201 at Orense street near the main office of the MMDA in Makati City."

Philstar.com quoted MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino, who said that during the dry-run, motorcyclists caught not using the segregated lanes will not be issued traffic violation receipts, but will be made to undergo a 15-minute road safety seminar handled by expert motorcycle riders.

The report pointed out: "After the dry run has lapsed, motorcyclists caught driving while intoxicated by alcohol or drugs will be made to pay a P2,000 fine; those using a mobile phone while driving, P200; without helmets for both driver and passenger, P150; overloading, P150; and engaging in reckless driving, P500."

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