By Xander Ledesma
The Bacolod City Council has approved a resolution urging the Land Transportation Office (LTO), Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), and the PNP Highway Patrol Group (HPG) to enforce Republic Act No. 10568, the Anti-Drunk and Drugged Driving Act of 2013, more rigorously during the 2024 MassKara Festival.
The resolution, proposed by Councilor Claudio Puentevella, was passed during the council’s regular session on October 23. Puentevella, who chairs the City Council Committee on Energy and Public Utilities, stressed that with the large number of tourists and residents expected to consume alcohol during the festival, the city must prioritize road safety and prevent fatal accidents caused by impaired driving.
Puentevella highlighted the potential risks associated with driving under the influence, such as reduced reaction time, impaired judgment, and dangerous accidents that could endanger public safety. He also cited the 1987 Philippine Constitution’s provisions regarding public welfare and safety, as well as the Local Government Code of 1991, which empowers local government units to ensure the effective governance and protection of their communities.
The council’s resolution underscores the need for stricter enforcement of the law to ensure that the public can safely enjoy the festival while mitigating the risk of accidents due to impaired driving.
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