Councilor Rodriguez calls for amendments to city’s traffic code to ease congestion

COUNCILOR Jonjon Rodriguez proposed amending the Cagayan de Oro’s Traffic Code, citing outdated provisions and weak enforcement as key drivers of the city’s worsening traffic congestion.

In a special report delivered during the 10th regular session of the 21st City Council, Rodriguez raised concerns about the non-observance of the truck ban on major roads, which he identified as a significant contributor to traffic woes.

“It is no secret that traffic congestion is one of the pressing concerns in our city,” Rodriguez said, noting that rush hours have become “barely passable” for vehicles and motorists.

He pointed out that the ineffective enforcement of the truck ban under Ordinance No. 10551-2007, or the Traffic Code of Cagayan de Oro, has worsened the situation. Enacted 18 years ago, he emphasized that the city’s traffic conditions today are drastically different compared to when the ordinance was passed.

Rodriguez also cited the lack of sufficient parking spaces, particularly along busy streets such as Capistrano, as another aggravating factor.

“It is high time that amendments to the ordinance be made. I strongly urge my fellow council members to amend our traffic code to address the realities of our current situation,” he said.

As chairperson of the committee on consumer protection, Rodriguez also apologized and appealed to the business sector to cooperate, stressing that they too will be affected, particularly in terms of the delivery of goods.

“We need to think for the common good. We need to make this truck ban viable for all to further address our traffic concerns. I am willing to work with all sectors. What we need is the political will to protect the interests of the ordinary, regardless of their sector,” he concluded. (JDO/SP)