BACOLOD City – More than 9,000 traffic violations were recorded in Bacolod City during the first six months of 2026, prompting the Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) to call for stricter and more consistent enforcement of traffic regulations, particularly against illegal parking and road obstruction.
Data cited in an approved resolution authored by Councilor Em Ang showed that the Bacolod Traffic and Transport Management Department (BTTMD) recorded over 9,000 violations from January to June, with road obstruction emerging as the leading offense.
More than 2,000 vehicles and tricycles were issued citation tickets for obstructing roads or parking in unauthorized areas during the period.
The BTTMD also reported that 534 vehicles were towed, while another 195 were clamped.
In response, the SP is urging the BTTMD and other concerned offices to intensify their crackdown on motorists who illegally park along sidewalks, pedestrian lanes, roadsides, and other prohibited areas.
The resolution, approved during last week’s SP session, calls for the strict implementation of City Ordinance No. 338, or the Comprehensive Traffic Ordinance, and existing tow-away zone regulations.
Ang said illegal parking contributes not only to traffic congestion but also compromises pedestrian safety, particularly for children, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities who are forced to use roadways when sidewalks are occupied by parked vehicles.
Illegally parked vehicles may also obstruct driveways, pedestrian crossings, fire hydrants, and access routes for emergency responders, she added.
The measure calls for regular monitoring and apprehension of violators, particularly in traffic-congested areas such as Lacson Street, the Public Plaza, public markets, schools, hospitals, and transport terminals.
It also recommends intensified enforcement during peak traffic hours, festivals, and the holiday season.
The resolution further urges the BTTMD to impose appropriate penalties, including citation tickets, vehicle clamping, and towing, without favoritism or discrimination.
It also calls for coordinated road-clearing operations involving the City Legal Office Enforcement Team, Bacolod City Police Office, and Public Order and Safety Office, in coordination with the Land Transportation Office, Highway Patrol Group, and Department of Public Works and Highways.
Other concerned offices are encouraged to maintain visible traffic signs and road markings, ensure accessible sidewalks, and require business establishments to provide adequate parking spaces in accordance with existing regulations.
Barangay officials and barangay tanods are likewise expected to help monitor local roads and report recurring parking violations.
The SP emphasized that effective traffic enforcement must be backed by adequate resources, including vehicle impounding facilities, proper road signage, and sufficient parking alternatives for motorists.
The measure seeks to strengthen discipline among motorists and ensure that public roads and sidewalks remain safe and accessible to all road users./PN
