MMDA impressed by Aquino's obedience to traffic rules

MANILA, Philippines - No less than the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority was impressed by the action of President Benigno Aquino III to follow traffic rules and stop for red traffic signals at intersections on his way from his Times Street house to his inauguration at the Quirino Grandstand yesterday.

“The President is correct in giving that example. Our enforcers were even surprised to see his vehicle taking the proper U-turns and obeying the traffic lights,” MMDA General Manager Robert Nacianceno told The Star.

“That was a pleasant thing to see. That should set the rules for everyone. He is making a point. We have not seen somebody like that in a very long time,” Nacianceno said.

According to Nacianceno, there is nothing wrong with the presidential convoy following traffic rules as there will always be security threats on the President regardless of whether the convoy ignores traffic rules or not.

Meanwhile, taking a cue on President Aquino’s speech where he said he will not be tolerating any motorists who would be using sirens and making counter-flows on the road, the MMDA will hold a special meeting today to reinforce its drive against vehicles using sirens and counter-flowing motorists.

Nacianceno said MMDA traffic enfor-cers are authorized to flag down and accost vehicles that have illegal sirens or have counter-flowed on the road.

According to Nacianceno, unknown to motorists, MMDA enforcers take photos of counter-flowing vehicles. These photos are then stored in a databank and are used as proof in sending notices to erring motorists.

One problem area the MMDA has identified, in terms of frequent counter-flowing vehicles is Granada St. in San Juan. Nacianceno said the rule against counter-flowing is simple to understand but most motorists apparently deliberately ignore it.

“These are minor rules but these must be followed. We like what the President is saying,” said Nacianceno.

Moreover, the MMDA said that yesterday’s inaugural went smoothly with both traffic flow and garbage collection under control.

“The MMDA, the Philippine National Police and the various local government units have cooperated fully. We had no problems,” Nacianceno said.