MANILA — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) clarified that carpooling is allowed as a practical response to rising fuel prices, but stressed that it must not be used as a profit-making activity.

“Pinapayagan ang carpooling bilang praktikal na solusyon, lalo na sa ganitong mga sitwasyon na ramdam ang pagtaas ng gasolina,” MMDA General Manager Nicolas Torre III said on “Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon.”

“Pero malinaw at gusto nating linawin ulit, this is for private arrangement only. Hindi ito dapat i-take advantage at gawing colorum operation. Hindi negosyo ang carpooling. Car sharing ito, hindi singilan ng pamasahe,” he added.

The MMDA said proposed guidelines on carpooling are still being finalized but are expected to allow participation from companies, factories, offices, and government agencies for employee transport arrangements.

Under the draft proposal, carpooling will not be open to the general public, and only pre-listed passengers included in a manifest will be allowed to participate.

Authorities said the program must operate on a non-profit or cost-recovery basis.

The MMDA warned that violators operating illegal carpooling services may face penalties, including fines and vehicle impoundment for up to three months.

“May multa at mai-impound ‘yan ng tatlong buwan. ‘Yan ang penalty sa illegal operation,” Torre said.