PUJ drivers told: Obey traffic laws

Metropolitan Manila Development Authority Chairman Benjamin Abalos Sr. said that he would not back down on his recommendation to revoke licenses of drivers who habitually violate traffic laws.

Abalos was reacting to the threat of public utility jeepney (PUJ) drivers’ groups to stage mass actions protesting the policy because it is "unconstitutional" and anti-poor.

The transport groups led by the Pinagkaisahang Samahan ng mga Tsuper at Operators Nationwide (PISTON) of Medardo Roda claimed that the new policy would affect the livelihood of thousands of drivers who rely on their jobs to support their families.

However, Abalos stressed that the groups have nothing to worry about as long they obey traffic laws. He pointed out that only the repeat offenders or drivers with bad records in terms of traffic violations would be recommended to the Land Transportation Office for the revocation of their licenses.

As an example he said that a driver with three apprehensions could be a candidate for revocation depending on the nature of the violations.

Abalos said drunk driving and recklessness as violations meriting a close look at repeat offenders.

He explained that every apprehension is now automatically forwarded to the LTO for its database. The database would be used as the basis for the decision to revoke the licenses of the habitual offenders.

"Let us remember that driving is a matter of privilege and not a right. We must be responsible for the safety and the lives of people," Abalos said.

Abalos also reported that the franchises of the public utility vehicle owners could also be recommended for revocation if their drivers are involved in numerous traffic violations.

On the threat of the transport groups to stage a rally, Abalos said that he would not allow "this kind of attitude because it would be equivalent to anarchy."

The MMDA hopes that by instilling discipline in drivers in Metro Manila, the flow of traffic would improve dramatically. – Marvin Sy