MEDINA, Misamis Oriental — Complaints about drivers refusing passengers, wearing inappropriate clothing and failing to observe proper hygiene are prompting the Sangguniang Bayan to look into stricter enforcement of rules for passenger vehicles.
The concerns were discussed Friday, Oct. 2, during a meeting of the Sangguniang Bayan’s Committee on Transportation and Public Safety chaired by Councilor Esmael Naguib Jr.
The committee discussed several complaints involving drivers, including the operation of colorum vehicles, wearing sando or sleeveless shirts and short pants while driving, poor personal hygiene and body odor.
Another concern was the reported practice of some drivers of choosing which passengers to carry and turning others away.
Naguib said the committee discussed stricter enforcement of the rule against refusing to convey passengers, as well as the possibility of increasing penalties for violations.
He said the issue needs further study, especially after complaints that some elderly passengers have difficulty getting a ride because certain drivers are selective about whom they accommodate.
Naguib said the Sangguniang Bayan has yet to determine the appropriate penalties for refusing passengers, improper attire, poor hygiene, body odor and other violations.
Traffic signs also raised
The committee also discussed the lack of enough traffic signs in the municipality, which could leave motorists and drivers uncertain about traffic rules and road regulations.
Police Capt. Teddy Macarayo, chief of the Medina Municipal Police Station, suggested that the Municipal Engineering Office take responsibility for making and installing traffic signs.
Macarayo said Engineering would be in a better position to monitor and maintain the signs, while the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office should concentrate on emergency response.
SB Secretary Edan Mark Vosotros said the MDRRMO was given responsibility for traffic signs during the administration of former Mayor Donato Chan because the Engineering Office did not have enough personnel.
He said the arrangement continued under the current administration.
Councilor Philip Tarongoy, meanwhile, called for a comprehensive traffic management plan and the creation of a traffic management office to oversee traffic conditions and enforce local traffic regulations.
