A major collaborative enforcement effort aimed at bolstering road security was conducted in Cebu City, leading to the apprehension of nine drivers operating vehicles while intoxicated. This high-impact operation was spearheaded by the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 7, in coordination with the LTO Central Office and the Philippine Coast Guard, underscoring a unified approach to traffic law enforcement.
Leadership and Coordination
The initiative was executed under the direct command of LTO Assistant Secretary Markus V. Lacanilao, with crucial support from the Philippine Coast Guard-Special Operations Task Group (PCG-SOTG), led by Colonel E.A. Arcilla (Ret.). Simultaneously, the LTO Regional Law Enforcement Services Region 7 (RLES-7), under the supervision of Regional Director Wendel C. Dinglasan, played a pivotal role in implementing the operation on the ground.
Location and Legal Framework
Focused on F. Cabahug Street in Cebu City, the operation rigorously enforced key traffic statutes, including Republic Act No. 10586, commonly known as the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, as well as Republic Act No. 4136 and other pertinent traffic regulations. This targeted enforcement aimed to address specific violations that compromise public safety.
Violations and Penalties
The operation yielded significant results, with authorities issuing 49 Temporary Operator’s Permits (TOPs) and documenting a total of 54 traffic violations. A detailed breakdown of the infractions highlights the diverse nature of the offenses:
- 9 – Driving Under the Influence of Alcohol (Drunk Driving)
- 10 – Unregistered Vehicles
- 12 – Violations of RA 8750 (Seatbelt Law)
- 14 – Violations of RA 10054 (Helmet Law)
- 1 – Violation of RA 10666 (Safety of Children Aboard Motorcycles)
- 2 – Overloading of Passengers on Motorcycles (Exceeding One Back Rider)
- 1 – Concealed or Obscured Vehicle License Plates
- 2 – Driving with Valid Driver’s Licenses (Pending Verification)
- 3 – Defective Vehicle Parts or Worn-Out Tires
- 1 – Other Miscellaneous Violations
Vehicles that were impounded during the operation were subsequently handed over to the Traffic Enforcement Unit of the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) for further processing and compliance measures.
Objectives and Public Appeal
The LTO emphasized that this operation is part of a broader strategy to deter hazardous driving behaviors and ensure the safety of all road users. Authorities continue to urge motorists to drive responsibly, adhere strictly to traffic laws, and absolutely refrain from operating vehicles after consuming alcoholic beverages. This call to action reinforces the ongoing commitment to reducing road accidents and promoting a culture of safety on Philippine streets.
