Gatchalian to MMDA: Be more vigilant vs. hazardous billboards

Senator Win Gatchalian is urging the Metro Manila Development Authority (MMDA) to enforce stricter guidelines for billboards and outdoor advertising signs along major metropolitan thoroughfares pending the passage of a law on billboard regulation.

The lawmaker issued the call after the Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) expressed concern over the presence of giant LED projector billboards along EDSA, which they said may distract drivers and cause road accidents.

"The MMDA should be more vigilant in enforcing the guidelines on billboards and outdoor advertising signs they implemented beginning in 2012. Mukhang nagiging overcrowded na naman kasi ang mga daan natin with giant billboards," Gatchalian said.

The senator also renewed his call for the passage of Senate Bill No. 995 or the Billboard Regulation Act, which he filed in August 2016 to set setback requirements and minimum distance between structures and limits the size of the display surface and height of billboard structures. The proposed measure also prohibits the obstruction of traffic signs and landscapes. Moreover, the bill also designates billboard-free zones, including in areas of historical sites, tourist destinations, and parks.

Gatchalian has been very active in campaigning for the regulation of billboards since he was a local chief executive and congressman, having filed a similar measure during the 16th Congress.

"There is as definite need to restore order in our streets and in our properties and we can start by correcting mistakes spawned by the liberal interpretations of laws on buildings and structures as these apply to billboards," he said.