Makati to sign anti-drunk driving pact

MANILA, Philippines - Makati City will join other cities across the globe in condemning drunk driving by signing tomorrow a pact for the global advocacy on responsible drinking and driving.

Dubbed as “Join the Pact, “ the event that will be held at the Philippine Stock Echange foyer, is part of a global campaign to collect signatures worldwide to send a clear message against drunk driving.

Signing the pact for the city is Mayor Jejomar Erwin Binay. Also signing the pact is retired Formula One champion driver Mika Hakkinen, who is now a Johnnie Walker responsible drinking ambassador.

“This pledge is not only a promise towards responsible drinking and driving. More than this, it is an oath to protect lives and uphold the campaign that winners never drink and drive,” Binay said in a statement.

Under the city’s amended traffic code, persons found driving while under the influence of drugs or liquor will be fined P2,500 fine and get their vehicle impounded for the first offense. The traffic code also recommends the suspension or revocation of the drunk driver’s license.

The traffic code also requires business establishments to refrain from serving or selling liquor to customers who will be driving.

The code also requires business establishments in the city to post reminders against drunk driving in conspicuous areas or be made to pay a P2,500 fine and have their permits to operate suspended, should they fail to comply.