The Manila City Council has passed an ordinance strengthening enforcement of the right of way for emergency vehicles, including ambulances, fire trucks, police vehicles and authorized vehicles using emergency lights and sirens.

Tondo 1st District Councilor Rosalino Ibay Jr., the ordinance’s principal author, said motorists must give emergency vehicles unobstructed passage because delays could cost lives, damage property or allow criminals to escape.

A retired Manila police officer, Ibay said the measure was based partly on his experience responding to emergencies.

“Motorists need to understand the importance of giving way to every emergency vehicle because lives, as well as property, are at stake during fires or when police patrol cars are pursuing criminals,” Ibay said in a Tribune interview.

He said the ordinance would also help educate motorists, particularly new drivers, about the importance of yielding to emergency vehicles.

The ordinance complements existing traffic regulations enforced by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority and the Department of Transportation-Land Transportation Office.

Violators may face fines, license suspension or revocation, depending on the violation.

Ibay said the measure supports Mayor Isko Moreno’s efforts to improve road order and safety in Manila.

“That is what this city ordinance aims to achieve. It supports Yorme’s promise to make Manila great again, and we are adding ‘make Manila safe again,’” he said.