Get drivers who use sidewalks to park, escape traffic — PB

The Cebu Provincial Government is calling on all traffic management units throughout the province to apprehend and penalize owners of all types of vehicles, especially motorcycles, that park or drive along sidewalks supposedly intended for pedestrians.

A resolution urging these traffic management units was passed during the regular session of the Provincial Board last Monday, April 13.

“It is highly noticeable, especially when traffic starts to build, almost anywhere in Cebu, abusive motorcycle drivers (pass) through sidewalks intended only for pedestrians,” said PB Member Arleigh Sitoy, the sponsor of the resolution.

Sitoy said that despite the presence of traffic enforcers, these motorcycle drivers still deliberately pass through sidewalks to bypass traffic.

Not only does this practice disrespect existing traffic rules, it also poses a risk to the lives of passing pedestrians.

The board member cited Article V, Section 52 of R.A. 4136 or the Land Transportation and Traffic Code of the Philippines which states that “no person shall park or drive a motor vehicle upon or along any sidewalk, path or alley not intended for vehicular traffic or parking.”

In February this year, the Cebu City government acquired a new tow truck to intensify its campaign against illegal parking.

The Cebu City Traffic Operations Management (CITOM) office then announced holding massive operations against illegal parking along roads, sidewalks, and barangay access roads.

On a normal day, CITOM apprehends a minimum of 10 illegally parked vehicles in the city.

Owners of clamped vehicles will pay a fine of P500 and settle unpaid accounts with the Traffic Violations Bureau.

Once the vehicles are towed, owners will pay P1,500 for motorcycles and P2,500 for four-wheeled vehicles as towing fees.