Lapu-Lapu to deputize tanods for traffic duty

CEBU, Philippines — Barangay tanods in Lapu-Lapu City will soon be deputized as agents of the City Traffic Management System (CTMS), with Barangay Bankal being the first to have a deputized agent.

In fact, the deputized agent, Efepanio Igot, already cited a truck driver last Monday for violating the truck ban.

Deputized agents have the authority to cite motorists for traffic violations such as illegal parking or driving while wearing slippers, shorts, or sleeveless shirts.

“The plan is for all barangays to have deputized agents. Barangay Bankal was just the first because their barangay captain requested it from the mayor," said CTMS chief Mario Napule in a statement released by the city information office

Napule said that Association of Barangay Councils President Jasmine Marie Chan, an ex-officio City Council member, has already filed an ordinance mandating that all barangays have a deputized agent.

Napule said that the city needs deputized agents in all barangays as the latter serve as force multipliers in managing traffic, especially during rush hours in the morning and afternoon, and in interior areas.

Napule added that upon the request of Bankal Barangay Captain Celestino Pangantungan, the mayor had five of his tanods deputized.

Other barangays, namely Basak, Babag, and Gun-ob, have already requested deputized agents.

Once the mayor approves their request, CTMS will train these deputized agents and an identification card is issued.

Napule clarified that the jurisdiction of deputized agents is only within the city and applies to all vehicles, trucks, and motorcycles. — (FREEMAN)