In response to the rising trend of individuals reserving parking spaces by standing on them, Rep. Perci Cendaña of the Akbayan party-list plans to file the “Mindful Parking Bill,” aimed at curbing this behavior. The proposed measure seeks to promote fairness by ensuring parking slots remain accessible to all motorists.
“Common courtesy is not so common nowadays,” Cendaña said, highlighting the need for legislation. He noted that parking disputes have become more frequent, as viral videos on social media showcase confrontations involving individuals reserving slots by blocking them with their presence.
The bill would not only impose penalties on violators but also include the cancellation of driver’s licenses for repeat offenses, if applicable. Cendaña’s proposal mirrors Marikina City’s 2023 Ordinance No. 002, which prohibits reserving public and private parking spaces by standing or intentionally blocking vehicles. The ordinance applies to various establishments and public areas, such as malls, schools, churches, and government centers, and imposes a P1,000 fine or community service for violations.
Cendaña emphasized that vehicle owners should adhere to parking regulations both on and off the road to prevent conflicts. “Car owners and drivers should follow basic rules… Let’s avoid unnecessary arguments and keep our cool. It’s better to report such incidents to parking attendants or authorities,” he added.
The bill aims to uphold the “first-come, first-served” principle of parking, aligning with existing guidelines that a slot should be given to the vehicle closest and first to reach it. This follows recent reports of people reserving parking spots at high-traffic venues like shopping centers, which have sparked debates online.
As the “Mindful Parking Bill” moves forward, it reflects an effort to restore civility and order to parking practices, ensuring fairness for all motorists.
