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Senator Seeks Harsher Penalties for Manila Traffic Violators

MANILA - Sen. Noli de Castro is seeking the confiscation of colorum public utility vehicles (PUVs) operating outside authorized routes in an attempt to resolve the perennial traffic problem in Metro Manila.

The senator, in filing Senate Bill 2266, wants the operator to have his PUV confiscated for violating the rule on the use of colorum vehicles on top of the existing fine of P5,000 (US$93) and cancellation of the franchise issued by the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board.

De Castro said by imposing stiffer penalties for traffic violations, erring drivers and operators would be taught discipline.

"We have to face the fact that traffic problem could be solved immediately not just by creating wider roads, nor a fast mass transportation system. What we can tap now is sources from ourselves - discipline and propriety," he said.

De Castro said there is a need to arm the Metro Manila Development Authority and the Department of Transportation and Communication with laws that grant them the required mandate to better assist in easing traffic woes in Metro Manila.

The De Castro bill will have violators suffer the penalties mentioned the first time the violation is committed.

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