A new bill is being proposed to curb traffic congestion in the country. Valenzuela Representative Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian is proposing the Proof of Parking Space Act that requires would-be buyers of new vehicles to provide proof they have have parking space suitable for the car they are buying.

By next year, an estimated 300,000 new cars will be sold to the public. This year it’s around 250,000. These new vehicles will add to the already congested roads and streets, especially in Metro Manila.

There’s also the problem of car owners parking their vehicles in the side streets, reducing the passable lanes that congests the smaller streets.

The street is primarily intended for vehicular or foot traffic and should not be appropriated as personal parking spaces for these vehicles. – Rep. Sherwin Gatchalian

The Proof of Parking Space Act will be enforced by the LTO to require buyers to file an affidavit of free parking space as a prerequisite to registration. There is a Php50,000 fine for violators.

In a related news, Rep. Gatchalian also proposed the Parking Fee Regulation Act to curb excessive parking fee charges by establishments.