Over 370 Vehicles Netted in I-ACT Ops in Cebu

More than 370 vehicles and motorcycles were apprehended here Thursday as the InterAgency Council for Traffic (I-ACT) intensified its road clearing and traffic enforcement operations in different parts of the metropolis.

Land Transportation Office-Central Visayas (LTO-7) acting Operations chief Irwin Patalinghug said I-ACT apprehended a total of 373 vehicles and motorbikes for different traffic violations, including obstruction or illegally parked vehicles.

“We have apprehended 252 vehicles and motorcycles in the morning operation and 121 in the early evening phase of the operation,” Patalinghug said.

Among those apprehended was the water tanker truck of Cebu City’s Department of Public Services, whose driver did not wear the prescribed seatbelt device.

Patalinghug said seven of the apprehended motorcycles were impounded as they were running without or with expired registration.

One of the impounded motorbikes was driven by a college student who was on his way home to Pinamungajan town with a cousin.

As a result, they could no longer go back home since they don’t have enough money for bus fare.

Patalinghug explained to the students why the LTO had to impound the motorbike and later handed them cash for their fare back home. The LTO also brought them to the nearest bus stop where they could catch a ride.

Other violations cited included driving with expired licenses, unauthorized vehicle modifications, failure to wear standard protective helmet, defective signal or brake lights.

The I-ACT operatives also lectured small business owners who operate along public roads and sidewalks to clear these of deterrents and make way for pedestrians.

Some members of I-ACT Metro Manila joined the Cebu operation together with partner agents from the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board, Highway Patrol Group, Cebu City Police Office (CCPO) Traffic Patrol Group, Philippine Coast Guard, Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and volunteers from Cebu Road Heroes.

The group initially conducted the operation in the morning from Barangay Guadalupe down to Barangay Bulacao in the southern part of the city, passing the long stretch of V. Rama Ave. which was cleared of traffic obstruction.

The second phase, which started around 5 p.m, was carried out at the South Road Properties near SM Seaside Cebu. (PNA)