Surigao 2nd District Rep. Bernadette Barbers has filed a bill that seeks to regulate the use of sidewalks and roads in urban areas. It aims to eliminate sidewalk littering and illegal parking to make the roads spacious and safe.
According to Barbers, traffic is a big problem in cities like Metro Manila because many people use the roads for their own convenience. Often, pedestrians are forced to go out on the road because vendors occupy the sidewalks. There are also houses and businesses that use the roads as parking lots.
Under the measure, the use of the road for parking, business, or terminals will be prohibited unless there is a permit from the local government. Violators can be fined from ₱1,000 to ₱10,000 and the removal of obstructing vehicles and structures.
According to Barbers, the goal of the law is to restore discipline and order on the roads to improve traffic flow and protect pedestrians. He called for its swift approval to solve the worsening traffic and mobility problems in the country.