Bugo asked to refine proposed truck ban ordinance

The Barangay Council of Bugo was asked to revise its proposed ordinance on nighttime heavy vehicle restrictions after the committee on barangay affairs considered the recommendations of the City Legal Office and the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA).

The proposed measure seeks to address residents' concerns over the frequent passage of heavy vehicles through subdivision roads at night, which has reportedly caused excessive noise, increased safety risks, and disruption.

In its legal opinion, the CLO said that regulating traffic, including restricting the passage of heavy vehicles through subdivision areas during nighttime, falls within the authority of the city government.

Meanwhile, the RTA raised no objection to the said proposal but recommended several revisions to align it with existing traffic regulations.

It pointed out that heavy vehicles should be classified according to gross vehicle weight exceeding 4,500 kilograms, as provided under Section 97 of the City’s Traffic Code, instead of using the number of wheels as the basis for regulation.

The RTA likewise found that the provisions on the suspension and revocation of operational permits are too broad to be effectively enforced and recommended that fines be imposed on both the driver and the vehicle operator to strengthen accountability.

The truck ban should also be enforced daily from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., except during emergencies as provided in the ordinance, the office further remarked. (JAO/SP)