50 drivers illegally parking vehicles in city caught

CEBU, Philippines - Another 50 drivers were apprehended by the Cebu City Transportation Office since last week for illegal parking.

CCTO executive director Rey Gealon said they conducted apprehension after receiving complaints from motorists that areas, specifically P. Lopez St. and Balintawak St., became congested due to illegally parked delivery trucks and motorcycles.

“The clearing operation was lauded by passersby as it opened up the sidewalk and pedestrian zones as well,” said Gealon.

He said they also found out that most of these delivery vehicles had no delivery permits as required by City Ordinance 801 or the "Traffic Code of the City of Cebu.”

“The drivers were then issued Traffic Citation Tickets (TCT) for their respective violations,” said Gealon.

He then advised all delivery drivers to secure permits at the CCTO to avoid getting caught. He likewise encouraged storeowners to also compel their delivery drivers to secure permits to avoid the hassle and inconvenience that go with apprehension.

Meanwhile, CCTO also apprehended since late last month around 100 vehicles reportedly parked illegally all over the city overnight, a violation of City Ordinance 2004 that prohibits the parking of vehicles along public roads from 12 a.m. to 5 a.m.

“Some were towed, those that caused obstruction. Most were only issued TCT. Owners are advised to settle their obligation with the Traffic Violation Bureau or face a criminal case,” said Gealon.

He said the ordinance is enacted in order for public roads to remain accessible and unobstructed for emergency vehicles and fire trucks.

CCTO also arrested earlier at least 81 erring drivers at the North Reclamation Area in Cebu City for overloading violations. (FREEMAN)