MANILA, Philippines (UPDATE) – About 1,400 motorcycle riders were flagged down on Tuesday for violating the motorcycle lane scheme implemented by the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) along Epifanio delos Santos Avenue (EDSA).

The violators were only required to attend a 15-minute on-the-spot seminar.

However, motorcycle riders caught violating the scheme starting February 20 will be fined.

Motorcycle riders using the lanes other than the designated 4th lane for motorcycles will be fined P500.

Those caught without plate numbers and wearing improper attire will be fined P150 and P300, respectively.

Driving without a helmet will be meted a fine of P300 while reckless driving will be meted a P500 fine.

The MMDA said the scheme aims to improve traffic on EDSA, where around 12,000 motorcycles pass through daily.

The agency also said the scheme has been effective at the Diosdado Macapagal Boulevard in Pasay City and Commonwealth Avenue in Quezon City.

“We hope to see a dramatic decrease from the 700 accidents we see on the road every year,” said MMDA Chairman Francis Tolentino.

Several motorcycle riders have already expressed opposition to the scheme, saying the lane is really not exclusive to motorcycles.

“Maganda din, kung ini-implement. [Ginigitgit] din kami ng ibang sasakyan eh,” said one motorist.

MMDA officials said that they are open to complaints and suggestions and that they may tweak the scheme if necessary.

The motorcycle lane scheme along EDSA is on its dry run this week and will be formally implemented on February 20.

The 4th lane from the right was designated as the motorcycle lane and will run from Monumento to Pasay-Rotonda. -- Report from Niko Baua, ABS-CBN News