Beginning Monday, November, 16, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) once again will conduct road clearing operations in coordination with 17 local government units (LGUs) in the National Capital Region (NCR).
The said operation is part of the implementing rules set by the national government to remove obstruction along Metro Manilas’ busy sidewalks and major thoroughfares that had been halted because of metro wide lockdowns due to the outbreak of coronavirus disease nearly eight months ago.
According to MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim, members of the Task Force Special Operations (TFSO) will assist local government units (LGUs) in their operations against obstructions, with the aim of reducing traffic and repairing the streets of Metro Manila.
“Metro local chief executives have asked for our assistance in reclaiming public roads and clearing areas in their jurisdiction from all kinds of obstruction. We appeal for the cooperation of everyone as we aim for accessible roads free from illegal obstructions,” said MMDA Chief.
TFSO members must conduct an intensified clearing operation on Mabuhay Lanes or identified roads that serve as alternative routes for motorists evading Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue or EDSA.
The personnel of the agency conducting the clearing operations must also wear facemasks, face shields and must comply with physical distancing and other safety protocols to prevent possible infection by COVID-19.
“Let us ensure unimpeded vehicular movement particularly along the major thoroughfares. We urge motorists to obey even the most basic and simplest traffic rules and regulations which can create a big impact in improving the traffic situation in Metro Manila,” Lim explained.
The revival of road clearing operations in LGUs is based on the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) Memorandum Circular 2020-145, which gave 60 days to LGUs, from November 16 to January 15, 2021 in response to the President’s directive to clean the roads of illegal structures and obstructions.