Bambi Eloriaga-Amago
Secretary Jose Rene Almendras, Edsa TWG (Technical Working Group) and MMDA (Metropolitan Manila Development Authority) head, announced that beginning January 18, they will begin slapping a fine of 500 pesos on private vehicles caught using the yellow bus lanes on the southbound portion of EDSA between Shaw Boulevard, Mandaluyong, and Guadalupe, Makati.
This portion of EDSA, apparently, is the “most problematic” during the morning rush hour, Almendras explained. Eventually, however, the policy would be implemented along the entire stretch of EDSA.
Right turning vehicles, however, are exempted from the rule. Motorists may only use the two outermost lanes of the highway when turning onto a side street. Tickets would be issued to those caught violating the rule.
“…we have started fixing the barriers placed along Edsa to educate motorists,” stated Chief Supt. Arnold Gunnacao, director of the PNP-HPG (Philippine National Police – Highway Patrol Group). The barriers the HPG and the MMDA will put in place will hopefully eliminate confusion among drivers as to which is the proper lane to use.
“We will place concrete barriers on these entry and exit points for the motorists to properly identify them,” Gunnacao explained further.
