In the vibrant streets of the Philippines, traffic violations have become a frequent sight. Every day, drivers disregard the laws that govern vehicle operation, leading to a wide array of infractions. From speeding and running red lights to faulty equipment and parking violations, the roads bear witness to an assortment of offenses.
The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) diligently documents these violations, highlighting the urgent need for greater compliance with traffic regulations. Since June 30, Manila City now has offered the Go Manila app and the official website for people to settle the traffic violations online. In the following discussion, we will explore common traffic violations to avoid and learn how to address them online.
Photo by J Torres on Unsplash
To What Extent, Are We Called Traffic Violations?
Traffic violations in the Philippines predominantly fall under the category of "strict-liability" offenses. This means that a person can be convicted of the offense without any criminal intent. The focus is solely on establishing that the accused committed the prohibited act. Whether the driver had any intention or awareness is irrelevant.
Even unintentional actions, such as accidental speeding, still constitute an offense. Some common examples of strict-liability traffic violations include speeding, failure to yield, improper lane turning, driving without headlights at night, parking in fire lanes, and driving with expired inspection or registration stickers.
Related: How To Park Safely On A Hill?
Types of Traffic Violations: Moving & Unmoving
In the Philippines, a moving violation occurs when a driver breaches a traffic law while their vehicle is in motion. Some common examples of moving violations in the Philippines include the following:
Violations |
Description |
Penalties |
Disregarding Traffic Signs |
Failure to obey traffic signs, resulting in violations. |
₱150 |
Improper Lane Usage |
Illegal usage of yellow lanes by private vehicles and violation of the Bus/PUJ lane ordinance. |
For private vehicles: ₱500 For buses and PUJs: ₱1,000 |
Truck Ban Violation |
To prevent traffic congestion and enhance road safety: 1. Large trucks are not allowed to drive on certain roads (e.g. E. Rodriguez Avenue, Taft Avenue, and España Street) during restricted hours. 2. Cargo trucks are prohibited on EDSA, except on holidays and Sundays. |
For the first violation: ₱2,000 For the second violation: ₱500 |
Reckless Driving |
Dangerous driving behavior that can cause accidents or property damage. |
First offense: ₱500 Second offense: ₱750 Third offense: ₱1,000 and revocation of driver's license |
Non-Moving Violations encompass violations associated with parking or faulty equipment. Here are some typical examples of these violations:
Violations |
Description |
Penalties |
Obstruction |
Blocking the passage of vehicles or driving in a way that obstructs other vehicles. |
₱150 |
Not Following Number Coding Scheme |
Violations of the Unified Vehicle Volume Reduction Program or number coding scheme. |
₱300 |
Loading and Unloading Passengers in Prohibited Areas |
Violation of loading and unloading restrictions in prohibited areas, causing traffic disruption. |
₱150 |
Stalled Vehicle |
Inoperative or abandoned vehicles on public roads. |
₱200 |
Illegal Parking |
Violators parked in NO PARKING zones. |
₱200 (If the vehicle is towed: ₱500) |
Read Also: [Ultimate Guide] Anti-Distracted Driving Act and its Regulations
Steps for Settling Manila City Traffic Violations Online
If you have received a citation ticket for violating traffic rules in the nation's capital, Manila City, you can now settle your traffic violation online. This convenient option is available through the newly introduced Go Manila app or the official website of the local government. Here are the steps to settle your Manila City traffic violations online:
Step 1: Download the Go Manila app or visit the official website.
You can find the Go Manila app on the App Store or Google Play. Alternatively, go to www.cityofmanila.ph. New users should click on the 'sign up' button.
Source: City of Manila
Step 2: Create an account.
Provide the necessary information to create your account. This account can be used not only for settling traffic violations but also for other local government transactions, bills payment, e-commerce, and e-services.
Source: City of Manila
Step 3: Access the E-Government section.
Navigate to the listed transactions and select 'OVR - Ordinance Violation Receipt System.' Then choose 'OVR Payment.'
Step 4: Complete the required information.
Enter your last name, middle name, first name, the OVR number displayed on the citation ticket, and the valid ID you will present.
Source: Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau on Facebook
Step 5: Upload a photo of the citation ticket.
Take a clear photo of the full ticket, ensuring that all the printed or written information is legible.
Step 6: Await SMS confirmation.
You will receive an SMS confirmation with the status "PENDING (account verified, visit your account to view SOA and pay now your transaction)."
Source: Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau on Facebook
Step 7: Generate a payment reference number.
Go to the Go Manila app or visit www.cityofmanila.ph again. Access the transaction once more and click on the option labeled 'yes.' This will initiate the process of generating a unique payment reference number for your transaction.
Source: Manila Traffic and Parking Bureau on Facebook
Attention: It is crucial to settle traffic violations within 10 days of apprehension to prevent additional repercussions. Failure to settle within this timeframe will result in the record being forwarded to the Land Transportation Office (LTO), where the motorist will be classified as a non-paying violator. To avoid any complications, please ensure prompt payment.