Police conducting an evening checkpoint operation in Laoag City flagged multiple motorists for violating traffic safety regulations, highlighting continued non-compliance with rules on helmet use, loud mufflers, and high-visibility vests.

The operation, dubbed Oplan Sita, targeted motorcycles, tricycles, and other vehicles along national highways and high-traffic areas where accidents and near-misses are more likely to occur after dark.

DAILY TRIBUNE was exclusively invited to cover the operation, which was led by the Ilocos Norte Police Provincial Office under the leadership of Police Colonel Jeomar Labiano, in coordination with the Laoag City Police Station.

Labiano said the operation was conducted to strengthen enforcement while addressing the persistent lack of awareness among certain road users.

“We still encounter many motorists who are either unaware of the ordinance or choose to ignore it. Our goal is to correct unsafe behavior before it leads to injury or death,” Labiano said.

He explained that motorcycles were among the primary focus of the checkpoint because they make up the majority of road users and are also the most common violators of the high-visibility vest requirement.

“Motorcycles are the most exposed on the road, especially at night. They are also the ones required to wear vests, so we expect higher compliance from them,” he added.

Under Provincial Ordinance No. 046-2023, all drivers and riders of motorcycles, e-bikes, tricycles, makeshift sidecars, and farm machinery are required to wear high-visibility vests when traveling along national highways in Ilocos Norte. The ordinance was enacted to reduce road accidents, particularly during nighttime and low-visibility conditions.

During the operation, several motorists were issued tickets for various violations. At the same time, Labiano and Laoag City Chief of Police Ryan Retotar distributed reflectorized vests to some apprehended riders who did not have one, while stressing that the free vests did not exempt them from penalties.

“The distribution of vests is not a reward and not a replacement for penalties. It is a practical step so motorists become visible immediately, but accountability remains,” Retotar said.

Labiano also conducted on-the-spot lectures, explaining the dangers of poor visibility, modified exhaust systems, and failure to wear protective gear.

“A noisy muffler is not just a disturbance. It can drown out warning sounds on the road. Not wearing a helmet or a vest greatly increases the risk of serious injury. These are simple rules that save lives,” Labiano said.

Police said similar operations will be sustained across the province as part of continuing efforts to improve road discipline and prevent traffic-related injuries and fatalities.

Authorities reiterated their call for motorists to strictly follow traffic laws, stressing that road safety is a shared responsibility between law enforcers and the public.