Single traffic violation ticket system, higher fines eyed for Metro Manila

The Land Transportation Office (LTO), Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, and Metro Manila local government units are currently discussing the implementation of a traffic code using a single ticketing system. 

According to Joseph Morong's report on "24 Oras," the agencies have also proposed an increase in the penalties that traffic violators have to pay.

The new system will also make it easier for violators to settle the penalties through Bayad Centers or through mobile apps.

“Pag meron pong nahuli at binigyan po silang ticket, yung ticket po na ibinigay po sa kanila ng one agency iho-honor po iyan lang ng kasama natin sa single ticketing system,” LTO chief Art Jay Tugade said.

Noreen San Luis-Lutey, chairperson of the technical working group (TWG) on the new code, added: “Wala na pong confiscation of license, ang LGU ay hindi na kukuha ng mga lisensya. Bagkos, yung mga mahuhuli po ay naka-tag na po sa LTO."

The penalty for not wearing a helmet will be raised from P1,000 to P1,500 under the proposal. Wearing unauthorized helmet will be fined with P3,000.

The TWG is also studying the penalty for motorcycle backriders wearing slippers, sandals, or without any footwear.

Divers loading and unloading in unauthorized areas will now be fined P1,000 instead of P500. For overspeeding, a fine of P1,000 will be imposed. For illegal counterflow violators, the penalty will be from P2,000-P5,000.

A P500 charge for number coding and traffic signs violators will be imposed.  Drivers who will argue with traffic enforcers will also be fined.

Motorists have 30 days to challenge the violations.—Sherylin Untalan/LDF, GMA Integrated News