For neophyte solon Surigao del Norte 2nd district Rep. Bernadette Barbers, instilling urban road discipline is key in alleviating the worsening traffic congestion in the metropolis.

That's why Barbers filed in the current 20th Congress House Bill (HB) No. 933, titled “An Act Regulating the Use of Sidewalks and Public Roads in All Urban Areas and for Other Purposes".

Aside from addressing the traffic problem, the measure also seeks to restore order and rightful use of public roads and sidewalks.

“Urban areas, especially Metro Manila, have become so congested that people do what is convenient for themselves, even at the expense of others,” Barbers said.

“Sidewalks are taken over by vendors, forcing pedestrians into the streets. Homeowners and businesses without parking use roads as their private lots. Add illegal terminals and you have total gridlock,” she added.

The Mindanao solon emphasized that roads are not meant for private use, and taxpayers have every right to demand order and accessibility.

Citing studies showing that Metro Manila residents lose hundreds of hours annually stuck in traffic, the newly minted legislator warned that this inefficiency has a profound impact on economic productivity and quality of life.

The proposed measure seeks to prohibit the use of public roads for parking, business operations, or terminals; allow only temporary uses with permits issued by LGUs; forbid local government (LGUs) or agencies from designating public roads as parking areas or terminals, even for a fee; and ban structures or business activities that obstruct sidewalks, while allowing temporary use with special permits

Violators will face fines ranging from ₱1,000 to ₱10,000, and authorities will be empowered to confiscate obstructions and impound vehicles parked illegally.

“This bill is about restoring discipline, fairness, and safety on our streets. Sidewalks are for pedestrians. Roads are for vehicles. When we respect that, we move better as a society,” Barbers said.