Proposed Ordinance to Penalize Drivers Using Cellphones in Mandaue City

A proposed ordinance filed before the Mandaue City Council will penalize drivers caught using their cellular phones while driving within the city.

The proposed ordinance was filed by Mandaue City Vice Mayor Carlo Fortuna and Councilor Elstone Dabon.

Earlier, the council approved a resolution warning the public not to play Pokemon Go while driving, crossing the road and walking on the sidewalks to prevent accidents and robberies.

That resolution was also sponsored by Fortuna, Dabon and Councilor Raul Kevin Cabahug V.

If approved, the proposed ordinance will be known as the Anti-Distracted Driving Ordinance.

“In relation to the Pokemon Go, Councilor Dabon and I have sponsored an ordinance. This is a mirror of the national law, which is an ordinance penalizing distracted driving,” Fortuna said.

Under the proposed ordinance, it will be unlawful for a motorist to use a mobile communication device to write, send or read text messages and make or receive calls.

Fortuna said violators will pay a fine of PHP1,000 for the first offense and PHP1,500 and impounding of the vehicle in the second offense. (PNA) LAP/EB/RSM