A bill to prohibit individuals from reserving parking spaces by standing on them was reportedly filed in the House of Representatives on Thursday, November 14.
Edited photo for illustration purposes only.
Akbayan Rep. Percival Cendaña filed House Bill 11076 or the proposed “Mindful Parking” Act. According to him, this practice obstructs traffic and goes against the “first-come, first-served” parking principle. In addition, it poses safety risks to those who stand in spaces designated for motor vehicles. “It is necessary to regulate the use of limited spaces and resources to promote fairness among users and protect them from harm,” he explained.
The bill defines a parking space as a designated area on public or private property intended for the temporary parking of motor vehicles, PNA reports. It imposes penalties on individuals who reserve parking spaces and drivers attempting to claim them. These penalties include a PHP2,000 fine for the first offense, a PHP5,000 fine with a six-month driver’s license suspension for the second offense, and a PHP10,000 fine with license revocation for the third offense.
Once the law is passed, the Land Transportation Office will have administrative jurisdiction over violations. Establishments will also be required to adopt policies to prevent this practice and impose fines or penalties for those who don’t comply; otherwise, private establishments could face fines between PHP10,000 and PHP50,000.
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