Cebu City eyes 1-minute passenger loading limit for jeepneys

CEBU CITY, Philippines — A proposed ordinance seeking to limit passenger loading time of jeepneys to just one minute at designated loading and unloading areas could soon be up for discussion in the Cebu City Council, as lawmakers move to address traffic congestion in the city.

The measure, authored by Councilor Sisinio “Bebs” Andales, forms part of the agenda for the City Council’s regular session on Tuesday, June 23.

Time limit proposed for jeepneys

If approved, the proposed ordinance would allow jeepneys to stop for a maximum of one minute at designated loading and unloading areas in the city.

According to the draft measure, prolonged waiting and idling of jeepneys at loading and unloading areas have contributed to traffic congestion and adversely affected road efficiency, commuter safety, and air quality.

The proposal seeks to strike a balance between traffic management and commuter convenience by ensuring that passengers board and alight safely within the prescribed period.

Under the proposed ordinance, the one-minute period would begin immediately after the last passenger has alighted from the jeepney.

Drivers and operators would be required to ensure that boarding and alighting are carried out promptly and safely.

READ: Lost in Cebu? Here’s a guide to Cebu City’s jeepney route codes

Exemptions provided

The draft ordinance contains several exemptions to the proposed one-minute rule.

Additional time would be allowed for persons with disabilities, senior citizens, and pregnant women to ensure safe boarding and alighting.

The time limit would also not apply during emergencies requiring immediate medical or safety assistance.

Likewise exempted are circumstances when traffic enforcers direct vehicles to stop or when road conditions temporarily prevent safe movement.

Jeepneys experiencing mechanical problems at designated loading areas would also be excluded from the one-minute restriction.

READ: Jeepneys now allowed in Cebu BRT dedicated lane

Barangay tanods to assist

The proposed ordinance would designate the Cebu City Transportation Office (CCTO) as the implementing and monitoring agency.

The office would be tasked with conducting inspections and traffic observations, issuing compliance orders, and prescribing corrective measures for drivers and operators found violating the proposed rule.

Noncompliance with CCTO directives could be referred to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for appropriate action under existing traffic laws.

The measure seeks to deputize barangay tanods to assist in enforcing the ordinance within their respective barangays.

If approved, deputized tanods would be authorized to observe and document loading and unloading practices, including video recording alleged violations and reporting them to the CCTO.

They would also assist in crowd control and coordinate with traffic enforcers and barangay officials.

However, the draft measure requires barangay tanods to adopt a non-confrontational approach and avoid physical altercations while carrying out their duties.

The ordinance also proposes that tanods undergo orientation and training on proper enforcement procedures and commuter rights.

READ: Jeepneys as a social space

Penalties

Under the proposal, first-time violators would receive a written warning, with the offense recorded in the CCTO database.

A second offense would carry a P500 fine, while third and succeeding violations would be punishable by a P1,000 fine.

Additional measures

The draft measure seeks the installation of CCTV cameras, digital timers, and visible signage at designated loading and unloading areas to indicate the one-minute limit.

It further calls for public awareness campaigns and the orientation of jeepney drivers by their operators, who may be held jointly liable for repeated violations committed by their drivers.

The proposal likewise authorizes the conduct of random spot checks and surprise inspections to ensure compliance.

Should the ordinance eventually be approved, it would take effect 15 days after publication in a newspaper of general circulation in Cebu City.

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