MMDA lifts truck ban for 5 days

MANILA, Philippines - Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Francis Tolentino softened his stance on the MMDA’s truck ban on Roxas Boulevard yesterday.

He announced that from Dec. 17 to 22, trucks will be allowed from midnight to 5 a.m. to help decongest the port of Manila.

Tolentino made the announcement on radio a day after he turned down a request by the Port Congestion Multi-Sectoral Working Group to allow trucks to use Roxas Boulevard to keep goods moving as more shipments arrive at the port.

Tolentino said  the MMDA imposed the truck ban for the people and in preparation for the Papal visit next year. He said passengers of domestic airlines going to the airport during the holiday rush have priority over trucks.

Tolentino also urged truck operators to adjust their schedule on Dec. 19, saying traffic gridlocks are expected along major roads in Metro Manila.