Solon blames unruly drivers, pedestrians for metro traffic woes

MANILA, Philippines - Even if the Metro Manila Development Authority's (MMDA) number coding scheme would be successful, the policy will not solve the recurrent traffic congestion plaguing Metro Manila streets, a party-list representative said.

Association of Laborers and Employees Rep. Catalina Bagasina said the problem is mainly caused by undisciplined drivers, pedestrians and corrupt traffic enforcers and cops, not by the volume of vehicles on the road at the same time.

"With all these undisciplined people on the streets, the perennial traffic problem in the metropolis will never be solved," Bagasina said in a statement on Monday.

Traffic jams, she said, are usually due to motorists'--especially jeepney and bus drivers'--disregard for traffic rules and regulations.

Bagasina added that the absence of traffic enforcers during nighttime and when there is inclement weather is "surprising," noting that MMDA has 2,000 enforcers and 500 policemen supposedly watching Manila streets.

While efforts of MMDA chairman Francis Tolentino are "commendable," the lawmakers said she is yet to see a concrete policy public utility vehicle drivers and operators as well as pedestrians.

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