MMDA eyes bank-based payment scheme for towing

The days of unscrupulous towing companies that overcharge owners of impounded vehicles for traffic violations are now numbered.

The Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) said yesterday it plans to come up with a scheme that will allow vehicle owners to settle fines and penalties through banks. 

Officials believe the scheme will be able to curb illegal or unauthorized towing activities in the metropolis. 

"This is to prevent private towing companies from charging exorbitant fees from vehicle owners," MMDA Chairman Bayani Fernando said.

According to him, such a scheme would put an end to extortion while also giving vehicle owners the assurance that they can claim and retrieve their vehicles without hassle as soon as they pay the towing fee.

"The scheme would be highly convenient for drivers," Fernando said.

At the same time, he also warned drivers against failure to settle obligations on time once the proposed system is in place.

Their names, he noted, and would be included in an "alarm list"and would then be forwarded to the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

"It would be difficult for them to renew licenses or other documents at the LTO," Fernando explained.

The MMDA chief expressed hope that his proposed scheme will be deemed acceptable by Metro Manila mayors, whom he will meet on Thursday for a Metro Mayors Council (MMC) meeting. – Michael Punongbayan