Prohibition on e-bikes and e-trikes on major Metro Manila roads takes effect today

Be mindful that effective today, electric bikes (e-bikes) and electric tricycles (e-trikes) are officially prohibited from traveling along major roads of Metro Manila in accordance to the Metro Manila Council’s approved resolution.

To be very clear, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) declared the following thoroughfares as off-limits to e-bikes and e-trikes: C1: Recto Avenue; C2: Pres. Quirino Avenue; C3: Araneta Avenue; C4: EDSA; C5: Katipunan/CP Garcia; C6: Southeast Metro Manila Expressway; R1: Roxas Boulevard; R2: Taft Avenue; R3: Osmeña Highway (South Superhighway); R4: Shaw Boulevard; R5: Ortigas Avenue; R6: Magsaysay Blvd./Aurora Blvd; R7: Quezon Ave./Commonwealth Ave; R8: A. Bonifacio Ave.; R9: Rizal Ave.; R10: Del Pan/Marcos Highway/McArthur Highway; Elliptical Road; Mindanao Avenue; and Marcos Highway.

As mentioned previously, it is up to the Metro Manila local government units (LGUs) to add more roads to the above list by means of approving local ordinances. Going back to the ban on e-trikes and e-bikes on Metro Manila’s major roads, Muntinlupa City Mayor Ruffy Biazon publicly emphasized the aspect of safety.

“It is about time we rationalize the use of these vehicles which are increasingly getting involved in accidents, cause traffic and endanger their users,” Mayor Biazon said in Manila Bulletin’s February 28, 2024 news report.

I should also state that there have been a lot of videos of e-trikes and e-bikes that caused problems on public roads and posted below for your viewing are YouTube videos I found. Do not be surprised to see how reckless or careless some e-bike/e-trike drivers turned out as caught on video.

It’s one thing for a person to drive an e-bike or e-trike, it is completely another for him or her to be fully oriented with traffic rules and safety oriented driving. In my view, all e-bike and e-trike units should be registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and each driver of electric vehicles should be required to get licensed to drive (which includes attending seminars and passing the tests). This is all about the greater good, the need to be orderly and ensuring road safety in general.

An electric tricycle (e-trike) spotted traveling along Alabang-Zapote Road in Muntinlupa City. Do you think e-bikes and e-trikes should be banned on that major road someday?
An electric tricycle spotted moving slowly on the leftmost lane along Dr. A. Santos Avenue (DASA) in Parañaque City. Should a ban on e-bikes and e-trikes along this road be implemented someday?

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you wish to see the ban on e-bikes and e-trikes be expanded to even more major roads of Metro Manila? Do you think it is high time that all e-bike/e-trike drivers should be required to attend road safety seminars and pass tests in order to be licensed to drive? Are there many e-bike/e-trike drivers in your local community who often drive carelessly or recklessly? Is every e-bike/e-trike driver in your city fully aware of the traffic rules and the basics of safety oriented driving?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Single ticketing system in NCR to be fully implemented this September

The single ticketing system in the National Capital Region (NCR) will start being fully implemented this September as announced recently by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), according to a GMA Network news report. As of the same report, Muntinlupa, San Juan, Parañaque, Caloocan, Valenzuela and Quezon City are currently the only cities implementing the said ticketing system which itself was launched formally last May.  

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the GMA news article. Some parts in boldface…

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the full implementation of the single ticketing system all over the NCR will make an impact on metropolitan traffic?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

MMC president Zamora says full implementation of NCR single-ticketing system may start within weeks

Now that the single-ticketing system in the National Capital Region (NCR) has officially started this past Tuesday, San Juan City Mayor and Metro Manila Council (MMC) president Francis Zamora stated that the full implementation of the said system may start within weeks, according to a Manila Bulletin news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news article. Some parts in boldface…

San Juan City Mayor and Metro Manila Council (MMC) President Francis Zamora said on Tuesday, May 2, the full implementation of the single-ticketing system in the National Capital Region (NCR) may start in a couple of weeks.

“Honestly, I am looking at a couple of weeks. Hindi naman mahabang panahon po ito dahil yung integration naman po ng ibang lungsod ay ongoing na (Honestly, I am looking at a couple of weeks. This won’t take a long time because the integration of the other cities into the system is ongoing as well),” the mayor said.

The dry run of the single-ticketing system started on Tuesday, May 2, in the following pilot cities: Manila, Quezon City, Parañaque City, Muntinlupa City, Caloocan City, Valenzuela City and San Juan City.

Zamora explained that the mayors of the seven pilot cities will convene soon to discuss and assess the results of the dry-run.

The single-ticketing system aims to streamline the traffic violations and fines of the 16 cities and lone municipality comprising the National Capital Region (NCR). It also allows violators to pay their fines using e-wallets and other digital payment platforms on the spot, preventing the need for them to proceed to the city hall to pay for their violation.

Earlier, all the mayors of the 16 cities and lone municipality in the NCR signed Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023, which defines the 20 common traffic violations and the corresponding standardized penalties. The violations include:

– Disregarding traffic signs

– Illegal parking (attended and unattended)

– Number coding UVVRP

– Truck ban

– Light truck ban

– Reckless Driving

– Unregistered motor vehicle

– Driving without license

-Tricycle ban

– Obstruction

– Dress code for motorcycle

– Overloading

– Defective motorcycle accessories

– Unauthorized modification

– Arrogance/Discourteous conduct (driver)

– Loading and Unloading in Prohibited Zones

– Illegal counterflow

– Overspeeding

The fines for these 20 violations range from P500 to P5,000.

The following special laws will also be implemented in the region:

– Seat Belts Use Act of 1999

– Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act

– Mandatory Use of Motorcycle Helmet Act

– Children’s Safety on Motorcycle Act

– Anti-Distracted Driving Act

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Acting Chairman Romando Artes explained that with the new system, motorists will no longer have to surrender their licenses once they committed a traffic violation.

With the single-ticketing system, the MMDA will provide handheld devices to its traffic enforcers that can offer cashless payment options to violators. These devices will be connected to the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) of the LTO to enable real-time data sharing and verification.

Aside from the handheld gadgets, body cameras will also be issued to the enforcers that are connected to the MMDA command center in real time.

The chairman stressed that with this system, corruption and other means of under the table negotiations between the enforcer and the violator will be prevented.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Did you notice any significant changes since the start of the single-ticketing system in NCR?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Single ticketing system for Metro Manila traffic violations set to launch on May 2, 2023

Finally the single ticketing system for traffic violations specifically covering Metro Manila will be launched officially on May 2, 2023 now that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and local government units (LGUs) have formally signed their agreement, according to a news article published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA). Specifically speaking, this new system will be in a pilot testing phase. Previously there was the target to start in April 2023.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the PNA news article. Some parts in boldface…

Metro Manila will implement a single ticketing system for traffic violations starting May 2, following an agreement between the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), the local government units (LGUs) of the region, and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) on Thursday.

In a statement, MMDA Acting Chair Don Artes said the signing of a memorandum of agreement (MOA) and data sharing agreement (DSA) aim to harmonize the existing national and local laws on traffic enforcement, as well as penalties and fines of the most common traffic violations stated in the Metro Manila Traffic Code.

The pilot testing will be done so the next LGUs that will be onboard will roll out their respective systems seamlessly,” Artes said.

Pilot testing for the single ticketing system will be done by the MMDA and seven LGUs—San Juan, Muntinlupa, Quezon City, Valenzuela, Parañaque, Manila and Caloocan.

The MMDA will provide handheld devices to apprehending officers that can offer cashless payment options to violators.

These devices will be connected to the Land Transportation Management System (LTMS) of the LTO to enable real-time data sharing and verification.

He added that the system will help minimize corruption and eradicate forms of negotiations between the motorist and the officer.

Senator Francis Tolentino, a former MMDA chair, expressed his support for the single ticketing system as he underscored the importance of integration.

“Integration will enable different systems to communicate with each other, to offer a unified solution and that is what you are doing now,” Tolentino said.

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., through Senior Deputy Executive Secretary Hubert Guevarra, welcomed the passing of the single ticketing system.

Let this be a way for all our motorists to become more conscious and respectful of our laws, rules, and regulations,” Marcos said.

LTO chief Jay Art Tugade, through Noreen San Luis-Lutey, also expressed his support for the rollout of the system.

San Luis-Lutey said the signing of the MOA and DSA is monumental for the LTO.

“It is a big milestone for us in terms of enhancing driver discipline through consistent and coordinated law enforcement initiatives,” San Luis-Lutey said.

The single-ticketing system, she said, will work in conjunction with the implementation of the 10-year validity of the driver’s license.

San Juan City Mayor and MMC president Francis Zamora thanked his fellow local chief executives for being part of the landmark legislation.

“The mayors have shown support and love to Metro Manila by amending our traffic ordinances to create a unified traffic code,” Zamora said.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this recent development? Do you think the new Metro Manila traffic violations single ticketing system will succeed in relation to the objectives mentioned in the above report?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

MMDA to hold dry run for single ticketing system in first or second week of April 2023

The proposed single ticketing system for Metro Manila will be executed in the form of a dry run by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) during the first or second week of April 2023, according to a news article published by the Philippine News Agency (PNA).

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the PNA news report. Some parts in boldface…

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) is set to hold a dry run for the implementation of the single ticketing system in the first or second week of April.

MMDA acting chair Don Artes said Thursday seven local government units in Metro Manila have expressed their readiness for the dry run. These are the cities of San Juan, Muntinlupa, Quezon City, Valenzuela, Parañaque, Manila, and Caloocan.

The single ticketing system across Metro Manila is nearing full implementation. There is a need to conduct a dry run to increase public awareness,” Artes said during the Metro Manila Council (MMC) meeting at the MMDA’s new head office in Pasig City.

To recall, Metro Manila local chief executives adopted the single ticketing system through the approval of the Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023, which provides for a system of interconnectivity among government instrumentalities involved in the transport and traffic management in the metropolis with harmonized fines and penalties.

Artes added that the Land Transportation Office drafted a memorandum of agreement (MOA) regarding interconnectivity with LGUs and data privacy agreement.

“LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Jay Art Tugade has committed to submit the MOA tomorrow,” he added.

MMC president and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora emphasized the importance of a single ticketing system.

The implementation of the single ticketing system will highly benefit our motorists because they have the option to pay through online channels for their violations,” Zamora said.

Under the single ticketing system, it will be easier for traffic violators in the National Capital Region to settle their penalties through Bayad Centers all over the country or through mobile apps.

Present during the meeting were Mayors Vico Sotto of Pasig, Ruffy Biazon of Muntinlupa, Weslie Gatchalian of Valenzuela, Emi Calixto-Rubiano of Pasay, Jeannie Sandoval of Malabon, and Miguel Ponce III of Pateros.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this new development? Do you think the single ticketing system will prove to be effective and helpful? If you were apprehended for a traffic violation and get slapped with a penalty, do you prefer to settle the penalty by paying through mobile apps and Bayad Centers?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. If you want to support my website, please consider making a donation. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/.

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Metro Manila Council (MMC) approves traffic code paving way for single ticketing system in NCR to start this April

Following the recent developments regarding traffic in the metropolis, the Metro Manila Council (MMC) gave its approval on the Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023 which paves the way for the implementation of the single ticketing system in the National Capital Region (NCR) this coming April, according to a GMA Network news report.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the GMA Network news report. Some parts in boldface…

The implementation of the single ticketing system in the National Capital Region (NCR) will start within April, Metro Manila Council (MMC) head and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora said Wednesday.

Within April, realistic ‘yan. Like what I’ve mentioned earlier, after today, it has been approved already. Aandar na ‘yung proseso natin (The process will start),” Zamora said at a press briefing shortly after the meeting of the MMC.

The MMC has approved the Metro Manila Traffic Code that will be used for the single ticketing system in NCR.

Concerned LGUs have to amend their respective ordinances in connection with traffic policies before March 15, according to Zamora.

The Metro Manila Traffic Code of 2023, which will serve as the guideline for the system, includes 20 most common traffic violation penalties that will be imposed uniformly in NCR:

  • Disregarding traffic signs
  • Illegal parking (attended and unattended)
  • Number coding UVVRP
  • Truck ban
  • Light truck ban
  • Reckless Driving
  • Unregistered motor vehicle
  • Driving without license
  • Tricycle ban
  • Obstruction
  • Dress code for motorcycle
  • Overloading
  • Defective motorcycle accessories
  • Unauthorized modification
  • Arrogance/Discourteous conduct (driver)
  • Loading and Unloading in Prohibited Zones
  • Illegal counterflow
  • Overspeeding
  • Special laws:
  • Seat Belts Use Act of 1999
  • Child Safety in Motor Vehicles Act
  • Mandatory Use of Motorcycle Helmet Act
  • Children’s Safety on Motorcycle Act
  • Anti-Distracted Driving Act
  • Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act

Asked for the list of fines for the violations, the MMDA said this is still subject for amendment.

The single ticketing system aims to establish a uniform policy on traffic violations and penalty system in Metro Manila.

It would cover Caloocan, Malabon, Navotas, Valenzuela, Quezon City, Marikina, Pasig, Taguig, Makati, Manila, Mandaluyong, San Juan, Pasay, Parañaque, Las Piñas, Muntinlupa, and Pateros.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What is your reaction to this new development? What is the one thing about the newly approved Metro Manila Traffic Code that concerns you the most right now?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. If you want to support my website, please consider making a donation. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/.

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Metro Manila Council head Francis Zamora: Metro Manila traffic code for single ticketing system approved by technical work group

The proposal for a single ticketing system related to traffic matters within Metro Manila was approved by a technical work group (TWG), Metro Manila Council (MMC) chairperson San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora announced recently, according to a GMA Network news report. This means that the proposal will be formally discussed with the MMC members and they will determine the final form of the system.

To put things in perspective, posted below is an excerpt from the GMA News report. Some parts in boldface…

The technical working group (TWG) has approved the Metro Manila traffic code that will be used for the single ticketing system, Metro Manila Council (MMC) chairperson San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora said Friday.

Interviewed on GMA News’ Unang Balita, Zamora said the final TWG meeting in connection with the single ticketing system was conducted in San Juan City on Thursday.

“Kaya ang gagawin ko po ngayon ay mag-schedule ng meeting ng MMC upang pag-usapan na ang pinal na porma nga ng ating magiging Metro Manila traffic code na prinisenta na rin kahapon at inaprubahan ng mga representatives na nandoon at kasama na po ako doon,” he said.

(So, I will schedule a meeting in MMC to discuss the final form of the Metro Manila traffic code, which was already presented yesterday and approved by the representatives including me.)

“I just want to clarify na ang aprubado dito ay sa level pa lang ng TWG. So ito ay ii-elevate na natin sa mismong MMC at kung wala naman pong pagtutol ng mga mayors dito, dyan  po magsisimula ang aktwal na proseso ng pag-implementa,” he added.

(I just want to clarify that it is approved only at the level of the TWG. So it will be elevated to the MMC and if there is no objection from the mayors, the process of implementation will start.)

According to Zamora, 20 common traffic violations with corresponding fines have been identified.

In San Juan, he said the fine for disobedience of traffic signs will be lower with the implementation of the single ticketing system. From 2,000 up to 4,000, the fine will be 1,000 only.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) will shoulder the expenses for the equipment needed for the new system, according to Zamora.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What can you say about this new development? Do you think a single ticketing system is needed?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Motorists who use friendship route stickers of Las Piñas City are not exempted from the number coding scheme in the city

In the city of Las Piñas, Mayor Imelda Aguilar went on the record stating that motorists who use vehicles that have the city government-issued friendship route stickers are not exempted at all from the number coding scheme that is implemented locally, the Manila Bulletin reported.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the Manila Bulletin news report. Some parts in boldface…

The city government of Las Piñas has clarified that vehicles with friendship route stickers are not exempted from the expanded number coding scheme being implemented by the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA).

Mayor Imelda Aguilar said vehicles with friendship route stickers are only for use inside subdivisions during the number coding scheme and not along the Alabang-Zapote Road.

Aguilar advised all motorists that the city prohibits vehicles with license plates ending in numbers in 1 and 2 on Mondays, 3 and 4 on Tuesdays, 5 and 6 on Wednesdays, 7 and 8 on Thursdays, and 9 and 0 on Fridays from 7-10 a.m. and 5-8 p.m.

She also said vehicles exempted from the ban are public utility vehicles (including tricycles), transport network vehicle services, motorcycles, garbage trucks, fuel trucks, marked government vehicles, fire trucks, ambulances, marked media vehicles, and motor vehicles carrying essential and/or perishable goods.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Las Piñas City resident, how do you feel about this recent development? Do you think that it is only fair that the city’s friendship route stickers do not really provide motorists exemption from the number coding traffic scheme?  

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below, share this article to others and also please consider making a donation to support my publishing. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

Urban Green Space and Recreational Park in Muntinlupa City inaugurated

In the progressive city of Muntinlupa, a special project referred to as the Urban Green Space and Recreational Park located at the Bayanan Baywalk was jointly inaugurated today by Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) Chairman Usec. Carlo Dimayuga III and witnessed by several guests and stakeholders, according to the City Government’s announcement.

A joint inauguration by the City Government of Muntinlupa and the MMDA symbolically led by Mayor Ruffy Biazon and Chairman Usec. Carlo Dimayuga III. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)

The project was from both the City Government and the MMDA done in accordance to the “I ♡ Metro Manila (MM)” advocacy where the agency is in contact with various local government units in the National Capital Region for the Adopt -a-Park Project.

Also in accordance to the Urban Re-Greening and Renewal Program of the agency, the new project is the initiative to raise environmental awareness and encourage inclusive and participatory planning among stakeholders to address urban decay through the creation of green public parks and Metro revitalization Manila ecosystem against rapid urbanization.

Mayor Biazon announced that the establishment of the park is part of the 7K Agenda central to his administration. The said agenda consists of Kabuhayan (livelihood), Kalusugan (health), Karunungan (knowledge or education), Kaunlaran (progress), Kapayapaan/Kaayusan (peace and order), Katarungan (justice) and Kalikasan (environment).

The new park is now accessible to the public. There, visitors will find newly planted grass, bollard lights, seats, ramps for persons with disabilities (PWDs), exercise areas, and a colorful playground for children to enjoy.

A very modern looking playground. (source – Muntinlupa PIO)

Present during the inauguration ceremony were Councilor Jedi Presnedi, City Engr. Dynadelle Aranda, EnP. Alvin Veron, Acting Head of the City Planning & Development Office, Arch. Don Causapin, head of the City Architect’s Office, Mr. Lorna Misa, head of the Environmental Sanitation Center, Mr. Herminio Dela Cruz, head of the Lake Management Office, Barangay Captain Ador San Pedro of Bayanan and barangay members Kagawad Johnson San Pedro, Kagawad Jojo Solema, Kagawad Ronnie Viconia, and Kagawad Buboy Soliveres. Also present at the was Barangay Administrator Engr. Vic Orellana and Barangay Treasurer Engr. Athan Gutierrez.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: If you are a Muntinlupa City resident, what is your reaction to this recent development? Do you find this special project very helpful to the city? Do you plan to visit the Urban Green Space and Recreational Park soon?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. If you want to support my website, please consider making a donation. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/ and on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/authorcarlocarrasco/.

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673

COVID-19 Crisis: Metro Manila mayors to recommend adjustment to Alert Level 1 status starting March 1, 2022

Thanks to the Lord who listens to the prayers of the faithful, the daily count of new COVID-19 cases kept falling down nationwide for the past few weeks and there are signs of stronger economic activities along the way. It should be noted that more people from overseas arrived in the country.

With regards to Metro Manila or the National Capital Region (NCR), the mayors of the many cities of the metropolis came to an agreement to recommend to the higher authorities the shift of control from the current Alert Level 2 to Alert Level 1 which should take effect on March 1, 2022, according to a GMA News report. Before the news broke out, Muntinlupa City mayor Jaime Fresnedi confirmed he voted for the shift to Alert Level 1.

To put things in perspective, posted below is the excerpt from the GMA News report. Some parts in boldface…

Mayors in the National Capital Region (NCR) have agreed to recommend the de-escalation of the region to Alert Level 1 from Alert Level 2 starting March 1, 2022, the head of the Metro Manila Council said on Wednesday.

“Downgrade to Alert Level 1 starting March 1,” Parañaque City Mayor Edwin Olivarez told GMA News Online in a text message when asked about the recommendation of the council following their meeting Tuesday night.

Under Alert Level 1, intrazonal and interzonal travel shall be allowed without regard to age and comorbidities. All establishments, persons, or activities, are allowed to operate, work, or be undertaken at full on-site or venue/seating capacity provided it is consistent with minimum public health standards.

Interviewed on Super Radyo dzBB on Tuesday, Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) officer-in-charge and general manager Romando Artes said the local government units (LGUs) in the NCR are ready to shift to Alert Level 1.

Artes said the NCR has been successful in implementing COVID-19 response programs.

Also on Tuesday, independent monitoring group OCTA Research said the positivity rate in the NCR has decreased to 4.9%, lower than the recommended 5% of the World Health Organization.

According to OCTA, this is the first time the positivity rate in the NCR decreased to less than 5% since December 26, 2021 prior to the COVID-19 surge caused by the more transmissible Omicron variant.

Once it takes effect, Alert Level 1 will pave the way for businesses to operate better which will translate into new job openings that the unemployed badly need. Businesses that cater to customers with their physical presence involved should be allowed to serve them in higher numbers than before. It could also mean local cinemas should be allowed to allocated even more seats for moviegoers. Families should be allowed to bring their children to more places outside their homes as well. Churches should be allowed to accommodate even more people to worship the Lord on Sundays. Along the way, COVID-19 vaccination operations continue to happen and as of this writing, almost ten million people here in the Philippines have received their respective booster shots.

When it comes to the unvaccinated who remain restricted until now, Alert Level 1 means liberty for them.  In the city of Parañaque, unvaccinated people are still restricted because there is no lifting of restrictions within the city even under Alert Level 2. Parañaque is one of four local government units (LGUs) where the unvaccinated remained restricted under Alert Level 2 and they are the only city in South Metro Manila to be so.

While Alert Level 1 is liberating, I urge all the people in the Philippines reading this to keep following health protocols. If you are still unvaccinated, I encourage you to get vaccinated for your health, your safety and for the good of the country. From this point on, we will see how the Inter-Agency Task Force (IATF) will respond to the Metro Manila Council’s (MMC) recommendation. Literally, the ball is now in the IATF’s side of the court.

Let me end this piece by asking you readers: What do you think about this recent news report? Do you believe that March 1, 2022 is the right time to start the implementation of Alert Level 1 all over Metro Manila? Do you believe that there are enough people who got vaccinated or boosted nationwide? Do you believe that the highly infectious Omicron variant is no longer a major problem?

You may answer in the comments below. If you prefer to answer privately, you may do so by sending me a direct message online.

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Thank you for reading. If you find this article engaging, please click the like button below and also please consider sharing this article to others. If you are looking for a copywriter to create content for your special project or business, check out my services and my portfolio. Feel free to contact me with a private message. Also please feel free to visit my Facebook page Author Carlo Carrasco and follow me on Twitter at  @HavenorFantasy as well as on Tumblr at https://carlocarrasco.tumblr.com/

For more South Metro Manila community news and developments, come back here soon. Also say NO to fake news, NO to irresponsible journalism, NO to misinformation, NO to plagiarists, NO to reckless publishers and NO to sinister propaganda when it comes to news and developments. For South Metro Manila community developments, member engagements, commerce and other relevant updates, join the growing South Metro Manila Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/groups/342183059992673