Driving in Metro Manila can get pretty confusing when you have different agencies implementing their own rules and regulations. The Supreme Court has just announced that the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority has the “exclusive authority” to enforce traffic laws in Metro Manila.

With this, the ordinances of 15 LGUs are now declared “null and void,” and only the MMDA and its deputized enforcers are allowed to issue traffic-violation tickets and confiscate driver’s licenses.

The decision was made official on July 11, 2023, but it was only made known to the public a couple of days ago. In addition, the MMDA is being compelled to implement its single-ticketing system as part of the MMDA Law (the Republic Act that created the agency).

Even the MMDA seemed caught off-guard with how it responded at a press conference, saying that the SC’s decision is not “final and executory.”

MMDA acting chairman Don Artes clarified that the agency still needs to prepare, and that motorists should submit to the authority of the LGUs. There isn’t enough manpower, according to him, and proper criteria must be set in place to deputize local traffic enforcers.

“What is important is the recognition that the MMDA, through the Metro Manila Council, has the power to pass resolutions regarding traffic,” said Artes. “In effect, binaligtad na ang earlier decision na nagsasabing kami ay walang legislative powers. Sinasabi ng Korte sa decision na ito na meron in so far as traffic regulations are concerned.”

So, what should motorists take away from all this? Submit to local authorities, follow traffic rules, and drive responsibly.