Treñas says PBO is not the only solution to congestion

By Jeehan V. Fernandez

Iloilo City Mayor Jerry P. Treñas stressed that the Perimeter Boundary Ordinance (PBO) is not the only solution on the traffic congestion along the city's major thoroughfares.

He even pointed out “that is why the city is still pursuing other measures like the strict implementation of traffic rules, construction of additional roads and expansion, clearing of illegal structures on the right of way and opening of bridges”.  

This he said in response to the reaction of some commuters that the PBO could not fully address the traffic problems in the city streets. Treñas pointed out that what is important is the discipline of the riding public.

Treñas has implemented the controversial ordinance February 16 despite the protests from various sectors. The Pumuluyo Kontra PBO, a newly-formed alliance opposing the ordinance conducted a petition signing in a picket post at Tagbak terminal.

The group's spokesperson Erna Doromal said that their complaint will be submitted to the provincial government and city council today for their consideration. “After that, we will assess the PBO and continue our protest until the city government would repeal it,” she added.

Doromal told The News Today that the alliance is considering filing charges as they question the legality of the ordinance. She added the PBO is “selective and discriminating” since the MIDC bound routes are allowed to enter the city.      

Meanwhile, the mayor cited that the terminals in Brgys . Buntatala , Tagbak and Balantang , Jaro ; Brgy . Ticud , Lapaz and Brgy . Hibao - an Norte, Manduriao have no permits yet but the city would not be really strict about it.

To note, the city council last week rejected the said terminals' applications for a franchise to operate such business. The Sangguniang Panglungsod would be granting a non-exclusive franchise to operators provided their terminal facilities have complied with the specifications of the ordinance.

The SP on Wednesday rationalized additional requirements for a terminal. These include facilities like 70 percent space should be reserved as holding point, access road and backing point, 20 percent space for passenger service, including a waiting  area having fixed benches with back rest and 10 percent space administrative area with security guard post.

It is also urged that terminals should have concrete drainage system; septic tanks for comfort rooms; private vehicle pick-up/drop-off area; roofed waiting area; and orientation on manpower and drivers on the rules of the terminals.

Further, the SP suggested that there should be concrete path walk for passengers from arrival/departure to main road; water closet, urinal and comfort room for disabled and elderly; public telephone; and an official receipt to be issued by the operator to the paying public utility vehicles.

“Each terminal franchise applicant will be given a 180-day period to complete the requirements,” the SP noted. Meanwhile, this proposal has been referred to the committee on transportation.