MMDA to shuffle traffic enforcers

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will reshuffle its traffic enforcers starting August 1 to do away with errant enforcers.

The reshuffle comes after the agency received reports that traffic enforcers assigned on Ortigas Avenue in front of La Salle Greenhills were receiving an allowance from the school’s parentteacher association (PTA).

Roy Taguinod, head of the MMDA’s Traffic Discipline Office, said Chairman Danilo Lim gave orders to investigate the 150 daily meal allowance provided to traffic enforcers.

“If there is money involved, it is prohibited. Food or water may be okay to show compassion among traffic enforcers who are performing their duties,” said Taguinod over the agency’s radio program aired by DZBB.

Four traffic enforcers stationed at the school zone have been relieved pending inquiry.

MMDA has 2,226 traffic personnel, with 525 assigned to EDSA from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Taguinod also said the agency will implement traffic measures to relieve the bottleneck not only at La Salle Greenhills but at several schools as well.

“We will mark yellow lanes along the highways where private vehicles can drop off or pick up students,” said Taguinod.

Vehicles can only stay for 30 seconds in the drop-off zones.

“They (motorists) will be given enough time, not over a minute. Few seconds can create traffic build-up,” said Taguinod.

He assured affected school administrators that they will coordinate with the PTAs before implementing the drop-off zones.