By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The Bacolod Traffic Authority Office (BTAO) apprehended around 861 violators of the “No helmet, No travel” policy, which began implementation this week.
BTAO head, Police Superintendent Luisito Acebuche, reported four violators were members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), while another four were BTAO traffic enforcers.
The apprehended officials have yet to be named, but Acebuche confirmed the traffic enforcers will be subject to a 30-day suspension.
Acebuche said BTAO will continue enforcing the policy until motorcycle drivers become law-abiding citizens.
Meanwhile, City Councilor Dindo Ramos, who chairs the Committee on Transportation, believes violators may be trying to challenge BTAO on their consistency in apprehending bad drivers.
The BTAO head reiterated, first offenders face a fine of P300; the fine increases to P500 for a second offense; while a third results in a P1,000 fine and a recommended revocation of the offender’s driver’s license.
Acebuche also announced City Ordinance No. 338, or the Comprehensive Traffic Ordinance, which seeks to regulate jeepney routes, parking areas, and eliminate jaywalking, will begin implementation on Monday, April 3.
Implementation will focus primarily on Lacson Street, in the area of Robinsons Place Bacolod, and in the downtown area, along Araneta Street.
Violators face a first offense fine of P100 to be paid upon apprehension, P200 for the second, and P300 for a third. Violators face community service if unable to provide payment./WDJ