2 license plates for bikes pushed

CEBU – The Land Transportation Office should consider policy changes, in the installing additional license plate numbers at the front and rear mudguards of motorcycles, law enforcers suggest.

The recommendation was made by the Police Regional Office with its director, Supt. Ronald Roderos, saying that it has already been agreed by members of the sub-committee on traffic management and anti-carnapping of the National Law Enforcement Coordinating Council.

The intention of the committee is to make it easy for law enforcers to identify motorcycles being used by criminal elements in carrying out their illegal activities.

Unlike four-wheeled vehicles, to which the LTO provides two license plates per unit, the agency only provides one license plate for motorcycles and that the existing policy is to attach the said plate number to the rear mudguard.

While most of motorcycle owners have complied with the policy to place plate numbers at the rear mudguard, others intentionally install them at the side, making it difficult to take down the plate numbers in case motorcycle drivers who figure in accidents flee from the scene.

Roderos said the resolution of the sub-committee will be referred to the LTO for further action, like the appropriation of funds as additional plates mean increased budget.

In City Hall, councilor Edgardo Labella asked traffic authorities to strictly enforce the law against drunk drivers as one way of ensuring road safety.

Labella already sponsored a resolution to be taken up by the City Council on Wednesday.

The NALECC sub-committee on traffic management and anti-carnapping also recommended the increase of fines to be imposed upon those caught driving under the influence of liquor.

Another proposal is to establish a law enforcement academy for traffic enforcers nationwide for the purpose of a uniformed traffic standard or procedure in implementing traffic-related laws and policies. — Rene U. Borromeo/MEEV (THE FREEMAN)