Traffic Enforcers to Crack Down on PUVs With Open Doors

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Bacolod Transportation and Traffic Management Department (BTTMD) has ordered traffic enforcers and supervisors to apprehend public utility vehicles (PUVs) operating with their doors open while in motion.

BTTMD officer-in-charge Patrick Lacson issued the directive following the tragic death of a modernized jeepney conductor, who fell from a moving vehicle after its side door suddenly opened.

“This practice poses a severe safety risk to both passengers and other road users. I strongly urge all personnel to immediately stop and apprehend any PUVs found to be operating in such a dangerous manner,” Lacson stated.

He emphasized that BTTMD is committed to ensuring public safety and urged passengers to help enforce the rule by reporting drivers and operators who continue the hazardous practice.

“Passengers should report such incidents to the authorities as part of our collective responsibility in maintaining public safety on the roads,” he added.

The directive comes after 22-year-old Reynan Sigurado of Barangay Mansilingan died in a hospital on March 6, two days after falling from a modernized PUV in Barangay Villamonte.

According to an investigation by the Traffic Enforcement Unit, CCTV footage showed that Sigurado was collecting fares and issuing tickets when he leaned on the door, which suddenly opened, causing him to fall onto the road.

The driver claimed he had opened the door after hearing Sigurado say a passenger was about to disembark.

In response to the incident, conductors of modernized jeepneys will undergo training seminars with the Land Transportation Office (LTO).

The refresher course aims to prevent similar accidents and improve safety practices among public transport personnel.