ALL taxi cabs operators in Cagayan de Oro will be required to install panic buttons or SOS lights in their respective units.

Ordinance 11513 mandates the installation of a distress alarm system in all taxi units and provides regulation for the purpose.

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It was approved during the City Council regular session Tuesday, and is expected to be signed by Mayor Constantino Jaraula this week.

Councilor Ian Mark Nacaya, who authored the ordinance, said the panic light system aims to protect drivers and passengers from criminal elements.

The panic button is described in the ordinance as a cone-shaped, 12-volt pilot bulb that should be installed at the taxi top light.

The electric switch that activates the panic light should be installed within easy reach of the driver but in an inconspicuous area inside the taxi unit.

The law prohibits drivers from using the alarm light when there is no occurrence of robbery or life threatening situation.

Drivers and operators who will not comply with the law will face a fine of P1,500 for the first offense, P3,000 for the second offense, and P5,000 for the third and subsequent offense.

Section 6 of the ordinance provides that if the offender fails to pay the traffic fine stated in the citation ticket, the Roads and Traffic Administration (RTA) shall immediately file a complaint against the violator before the court and, if he or she is found guilty, penalized with a fine of not less than P3,000, but not more than P5,000 or imprisonment of not less than eight months to one year, or both, at the discretion of the court.

The installation of the SOS light was requested by the Cagayan Federation of Taxi Drivers Association (Cafetada) to alarm government and enforcement agencies as well as civilians when the driver is in present danger.

Prior to the passage of the law, the committee on public utilities held a series of meetings with various stakeholders such as the Land Transportation Office, Land Transportation Franchising and Licensing Board (LTFRRB), RTA, and drivers association.

The co-authors of the ordinance are Councilors Simeon Licayan, Ramon Tabor, and Alden Bacal. (Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro/CIO)