Establishment of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) Lanes in EDSA
- HOV lanes are established on both northbound and southbound directions of EDSA.
- These lanes are specifically identified as the innermost lanes, closest to the Metro Rail Transit Line 3.
Definition of High Occupancy Vehicles (HOVs)
- Public motor vehicles qualify as HOVs, except for public utility buses and public utility jeepneys.
- Private motor vehicles also qualify, except for private buses, tricycles, and motorcycles.
- An HOV must have at least two occupants, including the driver (driver plus at least one passenger).
Restrictions and Penalties
- Only HOVs are permitted to use the designated HOV lanes.
- Drivers or registered owners of non-HOV vehicles using the HOV lane are subject to penalties applicable for Disregarding Traffic Signals and Reckless Driving.
Implementation Procedures
- A public information campaign and a dry run period were held from December 11 to December 17, 2017.
- Full implementation took effect on December 18, 2017, subsequent to publication in two newspapers of general circulation and submission of the resolution to the Office of the National Administrative Register, U.P. Law Center.
Adoption and Approval
- The regulation was adopted by the Metro Manila Council on December 5, 2017.
- It bears signatures of the MMDA Chairman and various City Mayors of Metro Manila, demonstrating collaborative governance.
Key Legal and Administrative Concepts
- The regulation leverages MMDA’s authority as delegated by law to optimize traffic flow and passenger capacity on EDSA.
- Identification of lanes and vehicle categories creates enforceable parameters.
- Penalties reinforce compliance and ensure effective enforcement.
- Public awareness and phased implementation promote smooth transition and compliance.
- Coordination among local government units and the MMDA reflects intergovernmental cooperation essential for metropolitan traffic management.