MMDA to motorists: Cooperate with stop-and-go scheme for SEA Games

Traffic enforcers of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) monitor the vehicles passing along Edsa in this 2018 file photo. INQUIRER / GRIG C. MONTEGRANDE

MANILA, Philippines — Days before the country hosts the 2019 Southeast Asian (SEA) Games, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) reminded the public to cooperate with all the traffic schemes they will implement from November 30 to December 11 at various areas of Luzon, including Metro Manila.

To ensure traffic flow will be well-maintained throughout the multi-sport event, MMDA previously announced it would implement “stop-and-go” schemes along Edsa and other major thoroughfares in the metropolis to allow convoys of delegates, officials, athletes, and other guests to pass through.

In a statement Friday, MMDA Chairman Danilo Lim asked for “motorists’ and commuters’ cooperation in giving way to the convoys of the athletes and delegates participating in the event our country is hosting.”

Convoys carrying delegates will use the yellow lane, flyover, and underpasses while traveling along Edsa, MMDA noted.

“Occasional traffic disruption and temporary stops are expected on roads and intersections where convoys would pass,” it added.

Lim also announced that a “no-day off, no absent policy” will be enforced among SEA Games assigned traffic enforcers from during the entire conduct of the biennial regional sporting meet.

The agency said it will deploy 2,000 traffic personnel in key areas in the metropolis to help manage traffic flow with 122 to be deployed along Edsa every 100 meters away.

MMDA likewise urged motorists and the riding public to expect delays on roads toward the sports and non-sports venues within Metro Manila.

Among the venues for the 30th SEA Games are: Rizal Memorial Sports Complex, Cuneta Astrodome, SM Mall of Asia Arena, SM MOA Skating Rink, World Trade Center, Philippine International Convention Center Forum, SM Megamall, Filoil Flying V Centre, Filinvest City, University of the Philippines (UP) Diliman Gym, Marine Corps, Muntinlupa Sports Complex, Starmall EDSA, Makati Coliseum, Manila Hotel tent, SM Megamall Ice Rink, World Trade Center, Philsports Arena, Amoranto Sports Complex, and Manila Polo Club. – By: Darryl John Esguerra