DAVAO CITY – A Davao City councilor announced on Tuesday, Aug. 5, a renewed push for traffic-related ordinances to address the growing problems of congestion and vehicular noise pollution here.
ACOSTA (Ivy Tejano)
Committee on Peace and Public Safety and Anti-Terrorism chairwoman Councilor Luna Marie Acosta said that they are now working on clamping zones and anti-modified muffler ordinances.
Acosta said that her committee's priority this year is the passage of the clamping zone ordinance to curb the increasing number of illegally parked vehicles in key areas.
"We noticed that there had been an increase in illegal street parking here in the city, and this is contributing to our traffic problems," Acosta said.
The councilor said the new rule will set clamping zones in busy areas, especially downtown, where traffic is worst, such as Quimpo Boulevard and R. Castillo St.
"Once enforced, any vehicle parked in these restricted zones will be immediately clamped and immobilized until the owner settles the corresponding fine," Acosta said.
She said the city will impose penalties ranging from P1,000 to P3,000, depending on the size and type of vehicle.
Acosta added that the ordinance also includes amendments to the city's traffic code, expanding the authority of the City Transport and Traffic Management Office to enforce these rules.
She said the city council is also procuring at least five clamping equipment which are necessary before fully implementing the ordinance. "We will procure another after the implementation of the ordinance."
Acosta said her committee is working on a new proposal to reduce excessive vehicular noise through an anti-modified muffler ordinance.
"There are a lot of these 'bora-bora' motorcycles. They say it's usually for aesthetic purposes, but they are very noisy. It's a nuisance sound," she said, referring to motorcycles fitted with custom or modified mufflers.
Acosta highlighted safety concerns, noting that many modified muffler exhaust systems do not comply with the Department of Trade and Industry and the Land Transportation Office standards.
"Improperly modified mufflers may cause mechanical failures and contribute to road hazards," the councilor said, adding that they will have a committee hearing on the proposed ordinances this month.
Acosta said they are serious about improving Davao City's traffic conditions and public safety. She added that these measures are part of their commitment to making the city more organized and livable.