CCTO to award top 10 traffic enforcers

CEBU, Philippines - Of the 275 traffic personnel under the Cebu City Transportation Office, 10 will be awarded under the first-ever Search for the Outstanding Traffic Enforcers of Cebu City.

CCTO, in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Cebu Port Center and other non-government organizations, launched yesterday the “Search for 10-Outstanding Traffic Enforcers in Cebu City.”

“We are aware of the concern on road traffic in Cebu City and the worsening traffic on other cities. It is high time to give recognition to those dedicated, courteous and honest personnel. Giving award to our traffic enforcers will hopefully inspire them as these people are the heroes of Cebu City,” said RCCPC President Dr. Jose Boy Unabia.

He said the men and women on the enforcement field deserve not only monetary consideration, but more on recognition and appreciation for their contribution in providing security to road users.

“We are for the campaign on road safety… Road accidents are the leading cause of death, according to World Health Organization. These traffic enforcers in a way had saved the lives of the general public,” said Unabia.

Peter Go, assistant governor of the Rotary Club Zone 1B, said they want to recognize the efforts of the traffic personnel, particularly those who have shown commitment and dedication to their assigned tasks.

“The importance of the event is to inspire and motivate traffic enforcers hoping that they remain committed on serving the public. Their job is no easy task. To manage road traffic is next to impossible. Our purpose is to recognize the hardships that the traffic enforcers are experiencing on field,” he said.

Lawyer Raphael Christopher Yap, the acting department head of CCTO, expressed gratitude to the private sector that sponsored the event, which he considers as a timely project aimed to improve the city’s traffic enforcement.

“This shows that they are appreciated not only by the city government, but also by the private sector…,” said Yap, who just celebrated his birthday.

Yap said managing the traffic situation in Cebu City is critical considering the stronger presence of more commercial businesses in the city. He cited the opening of Robinsons Galleria and SM Seaside City Cebu that might attract more people to visit the city.

“There is a dire need to look into, not only the quantity of traffic enforcers, but also the quality on how they handle their responsibilities,” said Yap.

Criteria for the search for the Search for 10-Outstanding Traffic Enforcers in Cebu City include quality apprehensions, attendance, less client complaints related to work and relationship between fellow traffic enforcers and clients.

The date of the awarding will be on June 6, 2016. Awards to be given are P10,000 cash; P100,000 worth of accident insurance for one year; and a plaque of recognition.— May B. Miasco/ATO (FREEMAN)