Lapu-Lapu to strictly implement towing

CEBU, Philippines - The Lapu-Lapu City government has warned vehicle owners that the city government will now strictly implement its Towing Ordinance.

Mayor Paz Radaza said all vehicles parked along the roads will be towed to avoid obstruction and allow the free flow of vehicles.

"Because we find this nga ang kaning mga sakyanan along the road dugang man ni sila sa traffic," Radaza said.

The mayor said she wants to revive the implementation of the six-year-old towing ordinance of the city to address the traffic problem. The ordinance was passed in 2010.

The ordinance prohibits parking along the roads, especially in areas specifically marked as "No Parking" and "Tow-Away-Zone." All apprehended vehicles will be impounded near Hoops Dome in Barangay Gun-ob.

It will not be released until penalties of around P1,500 to P2,000 are paid.

"Towing shall be effected by informing the vehicle owner, driver, operator or any passenger, with discernment, if any, otherwise, if none of the personalities mentioned, public and open announcement will suffice," part of the ordinance reads.

Radaza is also planning to increase the penalty.

"I feel nga patas-an pa kay aron molikay gyud sila og maayo. Molikay gyud sila sa penalty," she said.

The city government is also contemplating to buy a large tow-truck. The city only has a small towing truck that is not capable of towing large vehicles.

She appealed to the public to understand the city government.

 "Hopefully, ma-understand nila nga dili gyud mao nang ibilin ang nga sakyanan sa kadaplinan sa dalan as a parking area," she said. (FREEMAN)