(Photo: Philippine News Agency)

MANILA, (PIA) -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) and local government units (LGUs) to provide a one-month grace period for electric and other vehicles recently barred from using national roads in Metro Manila.

In an X social media post on Thursday, Marcos emphasized the importance of allowing e-bikes, e-trikes, and other light vehicles affected by the ban on certain Metro Manila roads to have sufficient time to become aware of the ban's implementation.

"I ordered the MMDA and all local governments in Metro Manila to grant a grace period to e-bikes, e-trikes, and other affected vehicles that pass through certain roads in Metro Manila," Marcos said.

He stressed the need for ample time for widespread dissemination of information regarding the implemented ban.

The directive pertains to MMDA Regulation 24-022, which came into effect on Monday, prohibiting e-bikes, e-trikes, tricycles, pedicabs, pushcarts, and "kuligligs" from using national roads, circumferential roads, and radial roads in Metro Manila.

During the grace period, e-trikes will not be issued tickets, fines, or impoundments, Marcos clarified. However, if stopped, they will be directed to the appropriate roads they can use, along with reminders about the newly implemented regulations aimed at enhancing safety and order on the streets.

The MMDA regulation covers several major thoroughfares, including Recto Avenue, President Quirino Avenue, Araneta Avenue, Epifanio Delos Santos Avenue, and others. Violators face a fine of P2,500, and unregistered vehicles will be impounded. (PIA-NCR)