BACOLOD City – The Bacolod Traffic and Transportation Management Department (BTTMD) has increased the deployment of its traffic enforcers across the city in anticipation of heavier traffic flow following the opening of classes in public schools today.
Additional traffic enforcers have been assigned to areas surrounding schools that are typically prone to congestion during class hours.
Jose Antonio Robello, officer-in-charge deputy of BTTMD, said that from the usual four traffic enforcers stationed at the University of St. La Salle, the number has been doubled to between eight and 10.
Similarly, in high-traffic areas such as Negros Occidental High School and Rizal Elementary School — both located along major thoroughfares — the deployment has increased to 12 traffic enforcers at each school.
“Traffic congestion is always expected during the opening of classes, especially in private schools where many students are driven to school in private vehicles,” Robello said. “This significantly contributes to the build-up of traffic in those areas.”
He also advised motorists, particularly those who live or have business near school zones, to leave their homes earlier than usual to avoid being caught in traffic delays.
BTTMD enforcers are scheduled to report to their posts as early as 6 a.m. to help manage the morning rush.
Meanwhile, Captain Ma. Liberty Indiape, spokesperson of the Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO), said that all 10 police stations in the city have been directed to secure schools within their respective areas of jurisdiction to ensure the safety of students.
Police beat patrols and mobile units will be present from early morning until students and teachers leave the school premises, Indiape added./PN
