THE local government of Kalibo in Aklan is implementing pay parking beginning February 15.

Kalibo Councilor Matt Aaron Guzman said the deliberation on the pay parking ordinance started in 2005 but its implementation has been delayed because of opposition from residents, as well as the series of lockdowns brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

"We have seven pay parking sites at the different areas within Poblacion, Kalibo. Its primary aim is to decongest traffic. For years, we have noticed that many transport owners leave their cars or motorcycles for hours, leaving others not to be able to park because the parking area is full," he said.

The ordinance stated that the pay parking rates include P40 for first two hours for four-wheeled vehicles, P30 for three-wheeled vehicles and P10 for motorcycles.

Extra pay will be charged for additional hours depending on the type of vehicle.

"If a driver will only stay for five minutes at a given area, they could request collectors in charge for free," added Guzman. (SunStar Philippines)