Question & AnswerQ&A (MMDA MEMORANDUM CIRCULAR NO. 11, S. 2011)
The primary purpose of MMDA Regulation No. 04-004, Series of 2004, is to prescribe guidelines on the installation and display of billboards and advertising signs along major and secondary thoroughfares, avenues, streets, roads, parks and open spaces within Metro Manila and provide penalties for violations.
The Secretary of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is vested with the power to administer and enforce provisions of the National Building Code governing outdoor billboards.
The Metro Manila Billboard Office is responsible for reviewing and evaluating the content of regulated signs, ensuring they do not defile, debase, or offend aesthetic and cultural values and traditions. It notifies violators and can request the MMDA to dismantle non-compliant signs.
The Billboard Office is composed of two local chief executives from Metropolitan Manila local government units, a representative from the religious sector, one representative from the billboard/outdoor advertising industry, one representative from the Advertising Board of the Philippines, and the Chairman of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority or his designated representative.
Section 2001 (b) states that no sign or signboard shall be constructed as to unduly obstruct the natural view of the landscape, distract or obstruct public view constituting a traffic hazard, or offend aesthetic and cultural values and traditions.
The Billboard Office must notify the billboard owner or operator of the violation and require rectification within three days. Failure to comply will lead the office to notify MMDA to roll down or dismantle the sign.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) was deputized by the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) to implement Chapters 8 and 20 of the National Building Code and its Implementing Rules within Metro Manila.
The MTRCB is consulted by the Metro Manila Billboard Office when reviewing contents of moving or non-static LED, LCD, or other electronic billboard advertisements to ensure content appropriateness.
They must adhere to their respective group or association’s Code of Ethics for advertising and promotions, ensuring that billboard messages are not offensive and conform to accepted moral standards.
The guidelines take effect fifteen (15) days after publication in two newspapers of general circulation.