MMDA to crack down on jaywalkers all over Metro Manila

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reminded pedestrians in Metro Manila to use designated crossing places as the agency has been deputized as enforcer of anti-jaywalking ordinances all over the metropolis.

According to Katrina Son's report for State of the Nation with Jessica Soho aired Thursday, the Metro Manila Council has agreed to have the MMDA implement the traffic management code or anti-jaywalking ordinances in the different local government units of Metro Manila.

MMDA spokesperson Celine Pialago explained on the report that the MMDA personnel will start cracking down on jaywalkers along roads outside of major thoroughfares such as EDSA.

"Ngayon po na we're being deputized, may mga areas na po tayong man-icket, puwede na ho tayong manghuli ng mga jaywalkers na gamit ho ng local ticket ng local government," she said.

According to the MMDA, at least 51,470 people in Metro Manila have been caught jaywalking last year but more than 42,000 of the violations were still "unsettled."

"May mga designated areas ho kasi kung saan maaring tumawid 'yung ating mga kababayan and yet 'yung iba ho, pinipiling makipagsapalaran sa EDSA sa mga major thoroughfares sa ilang mga circumferencial and radial roads natin na napaka-delikado," Pialago said.

Pedestrians interviewed on the report were divided on the development.

Some said jaywalking often seemed to be the favorable choice, citing the difficulty of climbing tall overpasses and the risk of falling victim to snatchers. —Margaret Claire Layug/LDF, GMA News