If you drive in Metro Manila long enough, you’ll eventually collect two things: traffic tickets and stories. Last week, my car “Puti” (yes, we name our cars) gave me both.

Incident 1: Traffic Violation at Buendia–Ayala (Friday, October 6, 7:00 PM)

Violation: Blocking the pedestrian lane
Result: Ticket issued + driver’s license confiscated

Here’s my side of the story: heavy eastbound traffic on Buendia, signal turning red, cars tailgating me like it was a Fast & Furious audition. I couldn’t slam the brakes without causing chaos, so I ended up covering part of the pedestrian lane.

Cue traffic enforcer. He takes my license, mumbles through the violation, ignores my explanation, and finally says he wouldn’t have given me a ticket if I’d just said “sorry.” The irony? I did. Calmly. Twice. Selective hearing, anyone? Hearing at the Makati City Adjudication Office is set for October 17. See you there, kuya.

Incident 2: Car Towed for Illegal Parking (Wednesday, October 11, 5:30 PM)

Violation: Parking facing the wrong way
Result: Puti got towed
Damage: ₱1,000 in towing and impound fees

This one? Guilty. No excuses. I parked wrong, and the city took its revenge. Lesson learned: Manila’s streets don’t forgive (or forget).

Lessons From a Week of Car Karma

1. Metro Manila traffic enforcement is unpredictable. Even when you think you’re in the right, you might still get a ticket.
2. Illegal parking is never worth it. Tow trucks move faster than you think.
3. Patience is the only fuel you can’t run out of. Whether contesting a violation or paying towing fees, you need it.

Driving in the city isn’t for the faint of heart. Between traffic, tickets, and towing, sometimes all you can do is laugh, pay the fine, and move forward. As for Puti, we’re both hoping for smoother roads ahead.