Cebu City Councilor Harold Kendrick Go is pushing for a new local law that would prohibit the use of tinted windows on all government-owned vehicles. The proposed ordinance aims to ensure clear visibility into the interiors of cars used by City Hall and barangay officials.
Promoting Transparency in Public Fund Use
The core objective of the measure is to enhance transparency and accountability. Councilor Go's proposal specifically seeks to prevent any personal misuse of vehicles purchased or maintained using public funds. The ban would cover tints, curtains, blinds, and any other materials that obstruct the view into a vehicle's cabin.
This rule would apply comprehensively to all motor vehicles owned, leased, donated, rented, or operated by the Cebu City Government and its barangays. This includes any unit acquired or maintained using public money.
Strict Compliance Timeline and Penalties
If approved, the ordinance will mandate that all affected vehicles have clear, unobstructed windows. Government offices and barangays will be given 60 days from the effectivity of the law to remove the prohibited materials and have their fleets inspected.
Vehicles that fail to comply after the grace period will face significant consequences. They will be denied access to city or barangay funds for fuel, lubricants, repairs, and maintenance. This suspension will remain in place until the vehicle obtains a compliance certification from the Department of General Services (DGS).
Exemptions and Enforcement
The proposed law does include exemptions for certain cases. These are:
- Emergency vehicles.
- Security or law enforcement vehicles on special missions.
- Cases with a certified medical necessity, supported by a doctor's certification.
Enforcement will be a joint effort. The Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO), Cebu City Police Office (CCPO), and the DGS are tasked with inspecting vehicles on roads, in parking areas, and within government compounds.
Violators face fines ranging from P3,000 to P5,000. Furthermore, managing officials who repeatedly allow or tolerate violations may face administrative charges.
It is important to note that while this is a local ordinance, the national Land Transportation Office (LTO) has its own regulations on window tinting. The LTO recommends a 70% Visible Light Transmission (VLT) for front windshields and 50% for side windows. A higher VLT percentage means a lighter tint, allowing more light to pass through.
