Sunday, June 24, 2007 Bus operators seek PNP’s help to keep passengers dry today
IN RESPONSE to the request of bus operators, the Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) will strictly implement security measures along the highways today, the feast of St. John the Baptist.
The feast day features a tradition among Filipinos that includes splashing others with water. The more unruly ones throw ice water or even splash pails of dirty water at passing buses to signify “instant baptism.”
Acting CPPO Director Carmelo Valmoria ordered all police stations and the Provincial Mobile Group to implement security measures that will stop the dousing of passengers.
In a memorandum sent Friday, Valmoria told police chiefs to coordinate with punong barangays and request them to conduct patrols along the highways.
They were also told to conduct information drives for the prevention of such practices in coordination with local government units and to assign PNP personnel along waiting sheds by the highways.
Valmoria also wants maximum police visibility along the main roads to prevent or minimize such acts.
No laughing matter
The Cebu South Mini-Bus Operators Association and the Cebu Provincial Bus Operators Association said some buses incur damages, especially in their windshields, while passengers also get wet while traveling as a result of the practice.
In their last meeting, most of their members expressed reluctance to operate on June 24 because of “mob rule” in the streets.
They worried that their units will be damaged and their passengers injured.
Aside from the discomfort of the passengers and damage to the vehicles, Valmoria is also worried that these acts could cause traffic accidents, especially if bus drivers try to avoid those behind the practice. (MEA)
