The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and the Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) have joined forces to wage a “psy-war” in a bid to instill discipline among motorists along EDSA.
MMDA General Manager Jojo Garcia said that around 100 traffic enforcers of the agency along with some HPG personnel will be deployed to manage the traffic flow from Timog Avenue to Ortigas Avenue starting September 9.
Garcia said that the move is part of the agency’s “psychological war” against motorists by deploying armed patrol police officers along Metro Manila’s busiest thoroughfare.
“We want the people to know that the government is very serious in enforcing the law. Bukod sa ine-enforce natin yan, (it’s also a) psy-war. Hindi niyo kayang bastusin o suntukin yan. Barilin kayo niyan. Hindi niyo kayang saksakin o sindakin yan, (Aside from enforcing the law, it’s a psy-war. You can disrespect or punch them. They can shoot you. You can’t stab or intimidate them),” Garcia said.
The elements of the HPG along with 100-strong MMDA traffic enforcers will man EDSA from 5 a.m. to 1 a.m. the next day and will issue tickets to traffic violators.
The MMDA, under traffic czar Edison Bong Nebrija’s supervision, will manage traffic from Balintawak and Ortigas to Pasay.
The PNP-HPG also deployed 48 motorcycle-riding policewomen to help manage traffic flow along EDSA and other major roads in Metro Manila.
Around 20 female cops were deployed on EDSA to help during rush hour.
HPG director Brig. Gen. Eliseo Cruz said that deploying female cops on the field shows that the PNP promotes women empowerment and gender equality. – With Ghio Ong, Emmanuel Tupas/STAR