License suspension eyed for disrespecting enforcers

Land Transportation Office Chief Assistant Secretary Atty. Vigor D. Mendoza II on Monday warned motorists of at least suspension of their driver's license if they would evade traffic enforcers who would flag them down for traffic violations, especially for illegal use of the EDSA Bus Lane.

Mendoza was with Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Don Artes during the implementation of the higher penalties for the unauthorized use of the EDSA Bus Lane on Monday morning.

"Our driver's license is a privilege given by the government. It comes with responsibility and obligation that includes respecting traffic laws to ensure road safety, and respecting the people who enforce them," Mendoza said.

Mendoza's warning is in line with the directive of Department of Transportation Secretary Jaime J. Bautista to ensure discipline among motorists as part of the efforts to ensure the safety of all road users.

Mendoza said they have been receiving reports of misbehaviors of motorists, especially motorcycle riders who would speed off to avoid being caught by MMDA traffic enforcers.

"This is a clear disrespect of the law and our enforcers who implement rules to keep traffic moving and make our roads safe for all," Mendoza said.

Artes, for his part, confirmed it, saying they have been receiving reports that some drivers evade apprehension by speeding off their vehicles when flagged down.

"These EDSA bus lane violators will be reported to the Land Transportation Office and penalties will be attached to the vehicle owners," Artes said.

The LTO has the power to either suspend or revoke the driver's license of any motorist who would blatantly violate traffic laws.

Mendoza said he is now discussing with Artes to expand the coverage of LTO action on erring motorists to include those who would disrespect traffic enforcers in any part of Metro Manila, aside from the EDSA Bus Lane.

He said he also tasked LTO regional directors to strengthen the coordination with traffic management units of all local government units (LGUs) to ensure that motorists who would disrespect traffic enforcers would be immediately punished.

Several motorists were apprehended on the first day of the implementation of stiffer fines for EDSA Bus Lane violators.