Driving Around the Metro
From a Commuter's Perspective
I must admit I'm rather challenged by the weekly topic inspiration. The main reason is that I don't drive -- seriously. However, I truly would like to participate so I thought I'd present this from a commuter's point of view.
Driving around the city can be quite challenging. More so if you are the passenger, like in my case. Although I no longer need to travel the distance to do my daily work, I have amassed a wealth of experiences from being a commuter for decades.
Let's Take a Drive
Cool Driving
Well, that was pretty cool driving around in a private vehicle. Wish I could say the same thing if you were riding in public transport. You'll definitely experience more stops along the way.
Are There Good and Bad Days?
For driving and commuting, yes definitely! I used to dread traveling to work on Monday mornings! Then there's going home on Friday nights! Since I live within a commercial area, Saturdays are a no-no too! I think Sundays are the best. Somehow there are less commuters and vehicles except perhaps in areas around the mall.
Since transport and traffic management in the metro falls under an agency known as Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA), read below some facts about this agency.
MMDA Transport and Traffic Management Tasks
The tasks include:
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the formulation, coordination, and monitoring of policies, standards, programs and projects in relation to transport operations, infrastructure requirements, and the use of thoroughfares;
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promotion of safe and convenient movement of persons and goods;
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provision for the mass transport system and the institution of a system to regulate road users;
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administration and implementation of all traffic enforcement operations, traffic engineering services and traffic education programs
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*source : MMDA Official Website : http://www.mmda.gov.ph/MMDAservices.html
Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA)
The MMDA is an agency of the Philippine government that is responsible for planning, monitoring and coordinating the delivery of metro-wide services within Metro Manila, comprising the cities of Manila, Quezon City, Caloocan, Pasay, Mandaluyong, Makati, Pasig, Marikina, Muntinlupa, Las Piñas, Parañaque, Valenzuela, Malabon, Taguig, Navotas and San Juan and the municipality of Pateros.
The MMDA has a rather extensive scope of services. This hub will focus more on the transport and traffic management scope.
Must Read for Drivers
- The Official Website of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority
On this page you will find the list of traffic violations and penalties. It's a printable page so you can have a copy. - The Official Website of the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority
You will find important information on this page that include :10 Things That Drivers Should Know; Protocol for Apprehension by Traffic Officers, and many more.
Traffic Violations
I'm not a traffic enforcer of the MMDA, but as a commuter / pedestrian, I often spot traffic violations on the street. Since I am not Superman to stop oncoming vehicles, I have to adjust. Sometimes, these traffic violations can be annoying! They often result to traffic congestion and vehicular accidents.
Yellow Light
I don't drive but I know that it's supposed to mean "slow down." Yet there are drivers who believe this means "speed up before it turns red."
Pedestrian Lane/Crossing
As much as possible I cross only on pedestrian lanes/crossings. However, it can be quite annoying when motorists do not give due importance to this. Following the traffic lights is sometimes not enough. You have to safeguard against violators.
One Way Street
Heavy traffic is, more often than not, caused by traffic violators. Entering a one way street is no exception, esp. when streets are narrow and can only accommodate single vehicles.
No U Turn / Left Turn / Right Turn
Road signs are visibly seen and strategically placed to protect pedestrians / commuters. Yet you need to be alert for your own safety.
Use Turn Signal
Being a pedestrian / commuter can be challenging in the streets of the metro. You sometimes need to guess whether a vehicle is going to turn at the corner or not.
Despite all these, I can still say it is great living in the city. I can't complain as I don't need to travel long distances or be caught in heavy traffic. Life is definitely good.
I'm going to leave you this clip that I found on YouTube. It's a trailer from The Bourne Legacy movie of Jeremy Renner and Rachel Weisz. I haven't yet watched the movie. Some scenes from the movie were shot in various locations in the metro.
