Group backs Metro Manila street parking ban
A commuters’ rights group has expressed support for a ban on street parking in Metro Manila, saying the policy should go beyond time-based restrictions and bar parking on public roads at all hours.
The Lawyers for Commuters Safety and Protection (LCSP) on Saturday backed the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) and the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority’s (MMDA) move to restrict street parking, noting that Republic Act No. 4136, the Land Transportation and Traffic Code, already prohibits parking on public streets.
“Street parking should be prohibited at all hours, not just during rush hours,” LCSP spokesperson Albert Sadili said in a statement on Saturday.
“Illegally parked vehicles are a persistent obstruction—not only to traffic flow but also to emergency services. Even during the night, when traffic volume may be low, parked vehicles can block access for fire trucks, ambulances, and other emergency responders during critical situations,” he added.
The group’s statement followed a directive from Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla urging Metro Manila mayors to finalize a unified no-parking policy by Sept. 1.
The proposed ban, part of the government’s campaign to ease congestion and improve livability, was discussed during a joint meeting of the DILG, Metro Manila Council and Regional Development Council.
Under the proposed plan, the DILG recommended banning street parking from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., while the MMDA floated a more limited restriction during rush hours from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Remulla said local governments would map out key roads, including Mabuhay lanes and major thoroughfares, where street parking would not be allowed. A technical working group is expected to finalize recommendations next month.
“We’re going to be very strict about it,” Remulla said during the meeting. “We’ll come up with a whole-city map to show where people can and cannot park.”
‘Band-aid solution’
While LCSP welcomed the parking ban as a step in the right direction, the group warned it was only a temporary fix.
“This is a band-aid solution to a deeper, long-standing problem of traffic congestion,” the group said.
Among the group’s recommendations for long-term solutions were the passage of a mandatory proof-of-parking law, which would require individuals to show they have a designated parking space before being allowed to purchase or register a vehicle.
“This will discourage indiscriminate parking and promote responsible vehicle ownership,” LCSP said.
It also called for public transportation reform to make commuting a safer, more reliable, and efficient alternative to driving.
“If commuting becomes a safe, reliable, and efficient option, many Filipinos will choose not to purchase private vehicles. A single bus, for instance, can transport up to 50 passengers while occupying far less road space than 50 private cars,” it said.
