EDSA bus lane violators to face stiffer fines starting Nov. 13 —MMDA

Private motorists who will use the EDSA bus lane will face stiffer penalties of up to P30,000 starting November 13, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) announced on Monday.

The Metro Manila Council (MMC) earlier approved a resolution increasing the penalty for those who will use the exclusive city bus lane/bus carousel lane along EDSA.

Under MMDA Regulation No. 23-002, the increased fines for the violation for both public and private vehicles are:

First offense – P5,000

Second offense – P10,000 plus one month suspension of driver’s license, and required to undergo a road safety seminar

Third offense – P20,000 plus one year suspension of driver’s license

Fourth offense – P30,000 plus recommendation to Land Transportation Office for revocation of driver’s license

“Based on our data and observation, there are those who are willing to pay the P1,000 fines and violate the exclusivity of the bus lane because they can afford it,” MMDA chairperson Romando Artes had said.

“Kalimitan kotse ng mayayaman (usually, vehicles of wealthy people),” he added.

Before the full implementation of the adjustment on penalties, Artes said the MMDA will first conduct information campaigns so that the public is aware of the increased fines. —Joviland Rita/KBK, GMA Integrated News