Makati implements tougher traffic rules

MANILA, Philippines - Makati City started yesterday implementing a city ordinance that imposes higher penalties for drunk driving, blocking intersections and other traffic-related violations in the city.

Makati Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay said deputized traffic enforcers of the city’s public safety department have been deployed to enforce the ordinance.

A motorist who drives over the “yellow box” at an intersection can be fined P1,000 for the first offense, P2,500 for the second offense, and P5,000 for the third offense.

Disobedience to traffic control signals, on the other hand, will entail a fine of P2,500 or suspension of driver’s license and, for a public utility vehicle, suspension of certificate of public convenience.

Motorists driving under the influence of liquor or drugs are fined P2,500. The city government will also impound their vehicles.

Binay said he has also ordered enforcers to strictly enforce a related ordinance banning the use of cell phones while driving in the city. Motorists caught with a cell phone while driving will be fined P500 for the first offense, P1,000 for the second offense, and P3,000 for the third offense.