Firm wants exemption of tow truck from ban

CEBU, Philippines - The owner of the Rough Riders buses has asked the City Council to exempt the company’s tow truck from the ban on trucks imposed on certain roads to decongest traffic.

William Tiu, owner and operator of Rough Riders buses, said the tow truck is necessary for them to fetch and bring to their garage buses that experience mechanical problems on the road so that they would not obstruct traffic for a long period of time.

“Being tax payers and essential partners to the development of the prestigious city, it is but fair that the tow trucks should be included in the vehicles exempted in the truck ban ordinance,” Tiu said.

He said he will be willing to appear before the City Council to further explain his request.

Other places, including Mandaue City, have imposed a truck ban on certain roads, especially during rush hour, as a means to decongest traffic. However, lack of knowledge on the prohibition exposes many drivers to huge fines when apprehended by traffic enforcers.

In other cities, exemptions are granted only to trucks that carry rice and other perishable items such as fish, vegetables, dairy products, poultry, and frozen meat.

Also covered by exemptions are garbage trucks, fire trucks, military trucks, ambulances, and other government trucks used for government projects. – Rene U. Borromeo/JMO (THE FREEMAN)