MANILA – The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) has dispatched traffic personnel around churches in the metropolis in a bid to deter obstructions caused by improper parking and vendors.
In an interview over Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon on Wednesday, MMDA Director for Traffic Enforcement Group Victor Nuñez said these personnel will be placed around churches that are frequented as part of ‘Visita Iglesia’ —the Catholic tradition of visiting seven churches during Holy Thursday and Good Friday.
“We have to make sure na maluwag pa rin at maayos ang daloy ng trapiko at maayos ang parking along the vicinity ng mga simbahan (We have to make sure that roads are clear, the flow of traffic is smooth, and proper parking is observed around the vicinity of churches),” Nuñez said.
Due to the large number of visitors expected in these churches, he said, street parking will be allowed but will usually be limited to occupying one lane.
“Iba kasi tatlong linya, dalawang linya na nao-occupy nila. Tinuturo namin sa tamang parking space (Some are occupying three or two lanes. We’re going to show them the proper parking spaces),” he said.
He called on the public, especially those visiting churches, to show discipline and follow proper road etiquette and regulations.
He also reminded those driving to the provinces to check their vehicles and ensure their roadworthiness.
“Please ensure na na-check niyo ang preno, langis ng mga sasakyan, make sure these are roadworthy, kayang i-biyahe sa malalayong lugar (Please ensure that you check your brakes, oil pressure, make sure these are roadworthy and are capable of driving to far off places),” he said.
A Visita Iglesia is one of the most popular ‘panatas’ or sacred vows made by Catholics in the country during the Holy Week. (PNA)
