ILOILO City – With passenger demand surging as the academic year begins, the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 6 is ramping up efforts to combat overloading in modernized public utility jeepneys (PUJs) through its newly launched “Anti-Sardinas Drive.”
Aimed at preventing overcrowded vehicles and enhancing passenger safety, the initiative will involve around-the-clock enforcement operations, targeting drivers who allow their vehicles to become dangerously packed, mimicking the cramped conditions of sardines in a can.
LTO-6 director Atty. Gaudioso Geduspan II emphasized that overloading has been an ongoing issue that previously lacked sufficient attention.
The directive for this crackdown comes from LTO chief Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II, in anticipation of higher passenger volumes due to the school season.
“It’s crucial that we address overloading now, before it becomes a bigger problem,” said Geduspan.
In addition to the crackdown, LTO-6 is urging motorists to show respect for law enforcement officials, following a recent traffic incident involving a female private vehicle driver who was involved in a widely publicized standoff with traffic personnel.
Geduspan reinforced that while drivers have the right to contest citations, such disputes should be settled through proper channels — not on the road.
As part of its broader goal of promoting discipline, road safety, and professionalism, the LTO continues to monitor violations across the region, stressing the importance of respecting traffic laws to ensure safer travel for all.
LTO-6’s “Anti-Sardinas Drive” move came just days after Iloilo City’s Mayor Raisa Treñas issued a citywide directive mandating intensified enforcement of traffic laws following mounting public complaints about undisciplined drivers, road accidents, and worsening congestion.
ROAD DISCIPLINE
Executive Order No. 008, Series of 2025 formally launches a comprehensive crackdown targeting common violations such as illegal parking, modified loud mufflers, and reckless driving.
The order, effective immediately, grants expanded operational authority to the Iloilo City Police Office – Traffic Management Unit (PNP-TMU) and the Traffic and Transportation Management Office (TTMO), directing them to carry out daily operations focused on discipline, safety, and pedestrian access.
“Clear action is necessary to protect the lives and welfare of every Ilonggo,” said Mayor Treñas in the EO. “Road discipline reflects not only our respect for others but also our love for our city.”
The intensified campaign comes amid growing frustration from barangays over illegally parked vehicles that obstruct sidewalks, fire hydrants, and intersections, posing safety hazards and blocking emergency access. Residents have also decried the proliferation of vehicles with loud, modified mufflers and drivers who beat red lights or overload passengers.
Under EO 008, the following violations will be strictly penalized:
* Illegal parking in “No Parking” zones, sidewalks, intersections, near hydrants, or any space that obstructs traffic;
* Use of modified or noisy mufflers, in violation of anti-noise ordinances;
* Reckless driving, running red lights, driving without a license, overloading, unauthorized use of sirens, and placing “reserved” signage on public parking spaces.
City officials say the volume of vehicles in Iloilo City has surged over the past year, highlighting the urgency for improved road discipline. Mayor Treñas emphasized that community support is crucial for the success of the campaign.
“If we want a peaceful and orderly Iloilo City, it must begin with each of us,” she added.
Authorities warned that repeat offenders could face stiffer penalties under existing local ordinances. Both the PNP-TMU and TTMO are now conducting heightened patrols and coordinated apprehensions across major thoroughfares and residential zones./PN
